Good afternoon, I have a 2008 Ford Escape XLT. I keep it in Mexico for winter use. Today after 2 days here, there is a noise that sounds like a dry bearing/lubrication point in the steering wheel. It only happens when I turn the wheel left or right, stopped or moving. It isn't the power steering noise all the other linkages/control arms were all replaced last winter. Does anyone know if there is a grease nipple along the steering shaft? I don't have a lift or grease gun here, but if someone can let me know where it is, I can point a local mechanic to pump some fresh grease into it.

 

There is a universal joint where the steering column shaft connects to the steering box shaft. That could be the source of the noise. If so universal joint will require replacement.. There also is a bearing under the steering wheel. Sometimes if dry, will produce noise. That bearing can be lubricated. Might need to remove steering wheel to lube it.
Thrust plates for the upper strut could also produce noise if worn. those three places need to be checked to pinpoint source of noise.

 

Thanks Hank, I appreciate your reply. I need to get an oil change done in the next week and when it's on the hoist will scout around with some lube and see if there is anything accessible underneath and hit it. Ironically, I went out last evening, the sound was gone. Who the hell knows. I just know it's HOT and DUSTY here! I will reply again once I've been to a shop.