Steering noise '97 Cirrus LXi
 

re 1997 Cirrus 167,000 mi

Just starting hearing a metal grinding noise when the steering hard either left or right. I raised the vehicle for a quick inspection but wasn't able to find any obvious sources. And, I wasn't able to produce the grinding sound when the wheels were off the ground.

There are no other steering or drivability problems.

I plan to recheck today with better light conditions and need some guidance on what to inspect.

Are you still having this problem?

Yes still have the problem. I'm thinking it's CV joints. Cleaned and inspected the entire front suspension and found no other obvious problems, except for a small tear in the upper ball joint rubber fitting.

Is the steering hard when you hear the metal grinding noise? Or is the grinding noise always there and the steering is easy?

Yes, steering is easy both left and right. Noise seems to be on passenger side, but it's difficult to judge while diving.

If the noise is not from the power steering pump, I think it could be from the strut or strut bushing. You can try spraying water with a garden hose above the wheel where the strut is and see if that quiets the noise temporarily.