I have quite a few people ask me this question – “Why do my tires screech when I turn?”
There are many reasons why this happens, and it is best to determine these factors to make sure your tires stay in good condition while at the same time keeping you safe on the road.
We discuss the possible reasons why your tires screech each time you turn. Have a look at these causes and consider the following tips to address this issue once and for all.
Why Do My Tires Screech When I Turn
Typically, your tires may squeal when you turn corners if they are worn out, misaligned, or underinflated. There could also be a problem with the steering, suspension elements, or with the wheel itself.
In other instances, the squealing may be due to the rubber scrubbing off as it tries to find better traction. This is particularly true when you brake hard or as you turn while accelerating.
But if the problem is so intense, then the sound may be just as loud even when you turn gently. However, there should not be any serious issue involved with the tire screeching as you turn on the parking lot. It could be that the surface has been painted on recently. This is why the surface is quite sticky, causing the tires to screech or produce a squeaky sound.
Tires Screeching When Turning Corners
Now, the most common reason why the tire may squeal when you turn corners is underinflation. Having less air pressure to the tires causes them to be flat. Hence, they are not able to get much traction as there is minimal resistance to any force within your tire. This is why the rubber may slide sideways, causing the tire to squeal.
Tires have lower air pressure because of a leak, especially when you have just put some air in it, yet you have inflated it just recently. So, you need to get your tires checked to make sure there is no holes that cause the leak.
Additionally, uneven tread wear can cause the screeching sound. In fact, it is legally dangerous to drive a vehicle when the tires have a 2/32-inch tread depth. When it goes up to 3/32-inch, screeching can occur and makes it unsafe to drive your vehicle.
If the wear with your tires is uneven, it can also make the squealing sound louder and more frequent. You will have to inspect the tires to make sure they remain even. Check teh wheel alignment, tire balance, suspension, pressure, and the overall condition of your wheel. Rotating the tires to maintain the right weight distribution is also important.
Other Possible Reasons
Aside from poor alignment and balance, there are several other reasons why your tires tend to screech when you turn.
For example, the engine belt may be damaged or worn out. This is why you may also feel the steering wheel is quite heavy as you turn.
Moreover, there may be an issue with the wheel bearing, as it becomes worn out or faulty. The bearings serve as a pillow between the wheel and the axle. So, when they are not inspected and kept in good condition, a grinding sound may be heard more often.
Additionally, it is best to check if the wheel lugs, as well as their covers, are not loose. Otherwise, there will be some friction between the part enveloping the wheel surface and tire. Squealing noises can then be heard when you turn.
Read More: Why Does Hot Air Come Out Of My Car Vents?
Tips To Solve Tire Screeching Noises
Considering the reasons why your tires squeal whenever you turn, you will need to perform certain tasks to address this issue and to prevent it from happening.
- Perform tire maintenance techniques
- Check the tire pressure regularly
- Check for any bulge on the tire
- Conduct better driving habits
If need be, you will need to get your tires rebalanced and checked. In fact, this is required when you have accumulated up to 6,000 miles, and the cost should be between $6 to as much as $20.
As for tire rotation, it is important to do this to make sure the weight is distributed evenly on every tire. Rotate the tires every 5,000 up to 8,000 miles. As for the cost, it should be around $25 to $120. This largely depends on the dealership or tire shop.
And lastly, wheel alignment is important to get your tires working properly while keeping you safe on the road. Other parts may be required such as components of the suspension system. Alignment should cost about $50 for the front wheels or may be up to $150 for all the four wheels.
By keeping your tires in good condition through maintenance checks, replacement, and professional inspection, you can prevent your tires from screeching when you turn while making sure you stay safe on the road.