I have a 97 A4 Quatro 2.8L that has been running great for years. The last couple weeks it has started to develop a noise that is getting worse. When steering at low speeds(less than 5mph) or at a complete stop with it in Drive, Park or Neutral a loud rubbing noise seems to come from the steering column when turning left or right. At higher speeds no noise what so ever. Steering seems fine, except for the noise. Any thoughts?

 

does it sound like grinding?

 

sometimes the coil spring in the steering wheel/column begins to rub. Almost like rubbing two pieces of paper together. It is not detrimental and if you can live with it you are ok. I have it on my car on occasion.

Can you explain the "Rubbing" noise more? Does it sound like it comes from the wheels? Inside the cabi?

 

check your ps fluid level, you may need to top it off...

 

I think the sound of rubbing two pieces of paper together best describes it. It doesn't sound like grinding and I have checked th PS fluid. I've had someone turn the wheel while I listened in the engine compartment and it really didn't sound like it was coming from the engine compartment. It really sounds like it is from the steering column. Where is this spring at and can I WD40 it?