how to fix steering wheel noise when turning Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
• Gather necessary tools and parts.

2. Check and Replace Power Steering Fluid

• Tools Required: Fluid siphon, funnel, power steering fluid (as specified in the owner's manual).
• Remove the power steering reservoir cap.
• Use a siphon to extract old fluid from the reservoir.
• Refill with new power steering fluid to the recommended level.
• Replace the reservoir cap.

3. Inspect and Replace Power Steering Pump (if needed)

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, power steering pump pulley puller.
• Remove the drive belt from the power steering pump.
• Disconnect the power steering lines from the pump and cap them to prevent fluid loss.
• Remove the pump mounting bolts and carefully extract the pump from the engine bay.
• Replace with a new or remanufactured power steering pump, ensuring it matches specifications.
• Reinstall the pump and torque the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Inspect and Replace Steering Linkage

• Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar.
• Visually inspect the steering linkage for wear or damage.
• If damaged, remove the old linkage components by unbolting them from the steering rack and the steering wheel assembly.
• Install new linkage components, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specification.

5. Reassemble and Test

• Reconnect the power steering lines and refill the reservoir with fluid.
• Reinstall the drive belt and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to bleed the system of air.