Start with the records. Repair orders, warranty documents, mileage, and days out of service are more useful than general assumptions about whether a vehicle qualifies.
Steering column noises that won’t go away can be more than annoying—they may signal a defect that affects your vehicle’s safety, value, or everyday use. If you’ve made repeated trips to the dealer and the problem persists, California’s Lemon Law may provide options. The information below explains how the law applies to ongoing steering column noises and what steps you can take to protect your rights.
California Lemon Law and Steering Column Noises
California’s Lemon Law (part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) protects consumers when a manufacturer or its authorized dealer can’t repair a warrantied vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts. The law applies to defects that substantially impair use, value, or safety. Persistent steering column noises—especially when the dealer has tried several times to fix them—can fall into this category if they materially impact how you drive or how safe the car feels.
Steering column noises can take many forms: clunking or knocking when you turn the wheel, clicking or ratcheting during slow-speed maneuvers, grinding or squeaking over bumps, or a rubbing sound near the steering wheel. Common culprits include issues with the intermediate steering shaft, column bearings, electric power steering motor, clock spring, rack-and-pinion, or upper strut mounts. While some noises might seem minor, steering-related defects can compromise control, create inconsistent steering feel, or trigger warning lights—each of which may affect safety and value.
What counts as a “reasonable number” of repair attempts depends on the circumstances. As a general guideline, California’s Lemon Law presumption mentions two or more attempts for serious safety issues, four or more for other problems, or a cumulative 30+ days in the shop—typically within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles. Even if you’re outside that presumption window, you may still have rights under the law. Potential remedies can include a repurchase (buyback) or replacement, subject to a usage offset, and possible reimbursement of certain incidental expenses. The specifics depend on your warranty, your repair history, and the facts of your case.
What to Do When Steering Column Noises Persist
Start by documenting everything. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealership for diagnosis and repairs so the work is tied to the manufacturer’s warranty. Get a detailed repair order each visit, making sure it lists your complaint in your own words (for example, “clunk in steering column when turning left at low speed”), what the dealer found, and what they did. If the noise is intermittent, record short videos or audio clips that capture the sound and the conditions when it happens.
If the issue continues, escalate thoughtfully. Ask the dealer to check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) or updated parts for your steering system. Keep all correspondence, track the number of days your vehicle is out of service, and request a manufacturer case number. Consider sending a clear, dated letter or email to the manufacturer describing the ongoing steering noise and prior repair attempts, attaching copies of your repair orders. Precise, organized records can make a big difference if you pursue arbitration or a lemon claim.
When you’re unsure about next steps, a consultation can help you understand your options. A California lemon law attorney can review your repair history, warranty status, and timeline to assess whether your situation may qualify under the law. ZapLemon offers consumer-focused support to help you navigate manufacturer processes, deadlines, and documentation. While no outcome can be guaranteed, speaking with our team early can help you avoid missteps and preserve your potential remedies.
Need a case-specific review?
Use the case-review form to share the warranty, repair orders, dates, mileage, and supporting facts an attorney would need to evaluate, or call (844) 927-5366.
Attorney advertising. General information is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. No result is promised or guaranteed.