Ahsai

Hi folks,

I have this strange occasional pop feeling when I turn the wheel at slow speed (e.g., making turns in a parking lot). It's almost like a small spring has poped but it's very subtle and happens only occasionally (can't reproduce at will).

Seperately, when I use my turn signal (say left turn signal on), the wheel will make a racheting noise when I turn it. The noise seems to come right behind the airbag.

Any thoughts? Mine is an '03 996c2 if that matters.

Van

The first thing you describe sounds like a tie rod end that needs to be replaced (or some other suspension ball joint).

HHPorscheTech

Tie rod sounds right to me for the popping feel. As far as the noise behind the wheel it sounds like the airbag contact ring spring has failed and what you are hearing is it rubbing on the steering shaft

JC3D

i agreee with the clock spring making noise. I had the plastic clip fall off mine but its still functional, just sometimes makes noise

Ahsai

Thanks for the ideas, guys. I plan to check all the suspension components too. However, the car is rock solid even at high speed and there's no vibration from the steering wheel either. The pop is so light that there's no sound. It's similar to the click when you hit one of those micro-switch (e.g., PSM, central lock switch, etc.).

99firehawk

the pooping is probaly just like you described the srping unloading as the wheel is turned.
You can lube the spring perch and just about eliminate it.

the noise in the colum sounds like someone had the turn signal switch out and did not install it all the way down

Benjamin Choi

i'm with firehawk - you guys talk about rods too often

Ahsai

Hi Brad, the car is not "pooping" yet

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll try that.