Hi, does anyone know what’s the cause & cure for steering wheel noise ? My 2001 SC430 makes an intermittent light scratching noise when I rotate the steering wheel. Sound comes on as especially when I have just started the car. It sounds like 2 sandpapers being gently rubbed together. Noise disappears after the car warms up ie after running for a few km. Thank you

 

I don't know about the noise going away, but there isn't really much to rub and make noise in there except the spiral cable. Unless something got dropped in between the back of the steering wheel and the plastic shroud behind it.

Not on an SC, but I have heard the scratching sound in another brand and it was the spiral cable. Hopefully someone with more experience will jump in soon.

 

Check your PS fluid, it might be low. Check your PS leak. If it's leaking, have it fixed ASAP before it destroys your alternator.

 

Hi GmanSC, many thanks. PS oil level is fine so will have to further troubleshoot. thanks

 

Many thanks, will get proper check up on this. Greatly appreciated.

 

How many miles on your car? do you know if the spiral cable was ever replaced? That is the cable in your steering wheel that makes your horn/airbags/radio controls work.

After I changed mine, I hear the same noise you do also

 

Hi, my 20 years old SC430 has very low 77,000km ie about 45,000 miles. I bought the car end of 2020 & noticed the sound a few months later. Unsure if spiral cable was changed. Will check & update.

Many thanks