My VXR8 has a strange steering noise

[R80HSV]

I noticed it last week, but I has the windows shut. Now today it is getting more pronounced. I parked my R8 in a multi-storey car park today and had the front windows open. So the sound is most noticed as I turn the steering wheel to the left. As soon as I stop turning the noise stops. If I start turning again it starts again. It is like a squeaky gattor rubbing but its from the outside not inside the car. It sounds as i turn to the right but from left front only too but not so noisy. The power steering is still normal. No detection of extra strength needed to turn the steering wheel.If I was asked I'd say the power steering is still ok.

Has anyone else had this issue on their R8.I am sure it is not the struts. It is I am sure 99% to do with the front steering, and from the passenger side.

Edited by R80HSV on Friday 27th December 16:45

[R80HSV]

S800VXR said:

Top mounts shagged? They are very poorly greased from new or, drive belt slipping a little... I'd change the drive belt first as dead easy then if its still there pop the top mounts out, strip and re grease if they are salvageable.

It is not a belt slip noise, but probably like you said top mounts on the passenger side only. It is due a service next week , so will get that sorted then.

cheers for info..

[R80HSV]

Not sure Gary. It doesn't sound like a noisy pump as it is coming from the front wheel passenger side only, the pump isn't there. Anyway I will book it into Picadors on Monday, not sure how busy there are. I cant hack it going all the way to MF, anyway it will be weeks before they will find time. The 50 k service is due.

[R80HSV]

lee st said:

When I first got the car monkfish said the top mounts had some play. I expected to have to change them each service I took it back up to them but they said they were fine each time. Maybe they have finally given up

Maybe Lee, I have a pot of power steering oil. "Purple". I last checked the steering oil 1 month ago. Had the oil nearly 6 months now, never opened it yet. Never had to add.

Going out to check now. Will report back...asap.

[R80HSV]

WPUK1 said:

Check the rubber boot on top of the pinion, they go hard and give a high pitch noise as you turn the steering. Peel the boot back and apply a little rubber grease to the inside of it.

WPUK1 ...I think you are right as it is wet now . noise nearly gone. I power steam washed it to day and removed a lot of the crap from last weeks rain from under the wheel arch and that wheel gets all the crap from the side of the road. Also checked the power steering oil not low at all, but put a splash in just to satisfy my mind. Still not up to full line when hot.

Then took the car out for spin, now the rubber boot is wet that rubber gaiter noise/squeak has nearly gone. However , it is still there. Haven't got any rubber grease. The noise is only half what it was yesterday.

Thanks for all your help.