Groaning noise from steering

[SSR S500]

Recently my car (2002/02 S500) has started to make a groaning noise when turning the steering. Happens when not up to full temperature and slow speeds.

Does anyone have a solution for this?
By the way the car had a major service last week and is currently on 55k miles.
Could it just be a case of power steering fluid needing topping up?
Thanks in advance for your help

 

[47p2]

It could be a bottom balljoint needing replaced.

You should have it investigated asap

 

[television]

Yes it could be a bottom swivel as 47p2 says, also the is the serpentine belt glazed at all. Do take a close look at the condition of the belt and look for any minor cracking

 

[Wirral_guy]

^ as above but yes, it could be a little low on steering fluid and is the cheapest/easiest thing to check. Mine groaned when turning after I accidentally let a little fall out doing another job. :Oops:

Interestingly, it only required about 50-75ml to get back to full so is obviously quite sensitive to fluid level.

Dave

 

[Frontstep]

If assuming it goes completely when hot it ain't ball joint/s and belt hmmmm
fluid level easy first check and is it clean?
oh and is the groaning inside or outside the car (youv'e not got a body in the boot have you)

 

[SSR S500]

the noise does go completely once car has settled at up to temperature. I'll start by checking the steering fluid tomorrow. I had ball joints go on my previous S500 but this definitely doesn't sound the same.

Television- where in the engine bay do I find the serpantine belt? Is there anything I can do to protect it? sorry but I am no mechanic

Thanks for the responses, greatly appreciated

 

[television]

The serpentine belt is the fan belt that drives the pump, if the inside is glazed or has tiny cracks, then change it, it is often the belt making the noise
http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.as...633722.635&CT=F&cat=66H&SID=21&SGR=050&SGN=01