The steering wheel on my 2000 Lincoln Continental with 116,000 miles makes
a rubbing noise when turning right or left. It's noticeable at slower speeds. The
power steering fluid level is fine. I'm thinking there's some kind of bushing in
the steering system that's worn. The noise comes from the steering wheel, not
under the hood.

Any ideas?

Thanks!
Scott

On Jul 6, 11:35*am, "Bozena" <b... (AT) bozena (DOT) biz> wrote:
Is the rubbing noise coming from the steering wheel itself? Or closer
to the dashboard or floor?

If from the wheel: The assembly that holds the brushes for the cruise
control and horn circuits often cracks due to poorly-chosen plastic.
This leaves springs and other parts dragging around. Suspect this if
one or more cruise control or horn function doesn't work correctly.

If between wheel and floor: There are ball bearings in "rubber"
isolators that can get noisey. Or something as simple as a wire bundle
that has somehow come into contact with the shaft.

WARNING: I think this vehicle was subject to an emergency recall due
to the ignition switch coming apart by itself (rivets failing). When
this happens, parts can come into contact with the wheel lock
mechanism and make noise as the wheel turns. You must get this fixed
instantly, or it can spontaneously catch fire just sitting there.

Good luck.