2007 MS3: Groaning sound when turning

[mazdamn02]

When turning corners at slow speeds in my MS3 the car makes an odd groaning sound. It's been around for a long time, however its getting louder now. I'm wondering if my limited slip diff is going bad or something with the power steering...?

 

[dmention7]

My first guess would be suspension... from what I hear, those cars do more groaning over bumps and around corners, than all of mnmazda has done collectively with Dan's mom.

 

[Picklz]

Does it do it while sitting still just turning the wheel?

 

[Slim]

My suspension groans/squeaks, but only when it's really cold out.

If it's happening only while turning the power steering is my first inkling.

Also, if it's happening at slow speeds that probably means it's happening when you turn the wheels more sharply, (which you don't turn as sharp at high speeds) which could be the power steering still or maybe something rubbing when the wheels are angled sharply.

 

[YSOSLO]

Jess just got done taking our Pilot in for the same problem and it was a failed power steering pump. The mechanic found a leak in the line that lowered the level of PS fluid causing the pump to fail. The previous posts about troubleshooting the problem are right on. Our pump replacement was covered by warranty, othewise it would have been about a $500 bill. Ouch...so hopefully yours is still under warranty if it ends up that that's the culprit.

 

[Workdawg]

If it's power steering, wouldn't you be able to hear the sound when you turned the wheel when the car is still? I would think to diagnose that, you could sit with the car parked and try turning the wheel fast all the way both directions.

 

[Picklz]

If only someone had suggested that earlier Dan, oh wait...lol.

 

[mazdamn02]

The sound is only present when in motion...
Edit: Going to have Walser look at it while they replace the height adjustment in driver's seat....