Noise from steering on cold start-up. This noise may disappear after a minute or two but is not nothing to worry about.
Low-Fluid Whine
This thin, high-pitched whine sound is likely to be caused by low power steering fluid levels. Adding more of the correct fluid for your car should soon get rid of the noise, and in the meantime you can investigate if there is a slow leak somewhere in the system. More on Steering Pump can be found at https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/pump/.
Cold-Morning Groan
This is a sign of thick fluid passing through the pump before it warms up. This sound should fade within a minute or so as the fluid in the pump warms up. However if the sound lingers well into a warm day then the fluid may be degraded within the pump and should be changed.
Air Cavitation Buzz
Air Cavitation Buzz – A rattling buzz is created when the power steering pump draws in air. This can occur when the reservoir is nearly empty or when there is a loose hose connection allowing fluid to froth up and create a cavitation sound. The sound is similar to a playing card being spun in the spokes of a wheel.
Drive Belt Squeal
A sharp squeal when the engine is started that then fades after about 10 seconds can be the drive belt slipping or be glazed and therefore not functioning correctly. The drive belt will show signs of wear in the form of cracks or shiny glazed surfaces. The belt will need to be replaced.
Match your noise to the cause of the noise and you will be able to tell straight away whether it is something simple that can be sorted out straight away, or whether it will need to be taken to a garage for repair.
