Pinpoint Tests AD: Front End Interior Cabin Noise When Turning

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford EcoSport. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

AD1: DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF THE INTERIOR NOISE WHILE DRIVING

While an assistant drives, use a stethoscope (or similar tool) to determine if the noise is coming from the steering column area or other interior components.
Is the noise coming from the steering column?

Yes	No
Go to AD2.	RE-EVALUATE the customer concern, or refer to appropriate Noise, Vibration and Harshness article for further NVH diagnosis.

AD2: CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHROUDS

Remove the steering column shrouds. Refer to appropriate Interior Trim and Ornamentation article.
With the vehicle stationary, rotate the steering wheel to the left and right steering stops.
Is the noise present while turning the steering wheel?

Yes	No
Go to AD3.	The steering column shrouds may be the noise source. INSPECT the shrouds for witness marks, proper alignment or damage. REPAIR or INSTALL new as necessary.

AD3: VISUAL INSPECTION FOR FRONT END INTERIOR NOISE SOURCE

With the steering column shrouds removed, visually inspect and check operation of the following components and systems while turning the steering wheel:
- Steering column shaft boot
- Top steering collar, mid column and lower bearing
- Steering wheel and clockspring
- Turn signal cancellation assembly
- Tilt and telescopic motors (if equipped)
- Steering column mounting bolts
- Steering shaft flex joint
- Steering column U-joints (upper and lower)
- Steering shaft pinch bolt joints or collar
- Telescoping steering shaft
- Column shift components - shifter, cables and mounting bracket bolts (if equipped)
- Column EPAS motor (if equipped)
- Adaptive steering components (if equipped)
Inspect for impaired components, damaged, loose, excessively noisy or excessively worn components.
Are the listed components OK?

Yes	No
Components may pass a visual inspection but could still be making internal noises. REFER to the list of components in the pinpoint test step and, using a stethoscope, IDENTIFY components with internal noise. REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary.	REPAIR or INSTALL new any components as necessary.