987.2 weird noises from steering wheel

hi, I have a 987.2 2011 base model Cayman . The steering wheel is creating whining noise and it is really bothering me. It went to service and they said it was OK (not an official dealer, but specialized for Porsche ). They said this is a sports car, so the steering wheel is heavy and creates noises. Tbh steering wheel is very heavy. Maybe this is normal for Porsche . Can you check the noise from the video and tell me your idea? do you think it is a steering fluid issue? and thanks, everyone. video link

That is a weird noise. Nothing that I've heard on mine. Did this shop check the power-steering fluid level? And if it has to be topped up DO NOT USE standard power-steering fluid for it. It uses a special oil CHF-114 (from memory) CHF-11S made by Pensotin. If you put in standard fluid - it's likely the fluid filter will clog.. The power steering reservoir has a filter that can become blocked and it may cause this sort of noise. After you get it sorted out - please visit New Member Introductions and let us know about your car and your driving enthusiasms.

My take is something is definitely wrong here, and that steering wheel definitely looks heavy. The thing is to listen to clearly find where the groaning sounds are coming from (fore or aft in the cabin). If it's power steering wheel cavitation issues (which I doubt), those should come from the rear. If it were me, I'd remove both panels (behind the seats and the top of the engine) and then listen again to clarify and rule out the rear. @deilenberger is correct on using the correct steering oil. However, you can also use CHF-202, which is compatible with CHF-11S (older style). Do NOT use anything else under any circumstances.

First off, the response from from your mechanic is almost comical. ‘It’s a sports car, the steering wheel is heavy’ is laughable. I would seek another mechanic. Did he try to sell you a bridge, also? it is very difficult to ascertain the sounds I’m hearing from the video, but they sound more physical in nature. Like a piece of trim surrounding the steering column contorting, or the steering wheel cover rubbing. But more important, is the fact that the video was taken while the car was stationary and the steering wheel was being spun from lock to lock, something I wouldn’t recommend. Does the noise occur while turning the wheel with the car in motion? Need more background on the issue, or a better vid clip with clearer audio.

Even with a system that is functioning normally there can be some sounds like groaning/squeaking. a lot of the sound seem like they are coming from the tyres being stationary but I do hear some "swan or goose like" noises 🤔 Checking the level as the others have suggested is a good idea and when was the last time the fluid was replaced? With our cars getting old, leaks are also pretty common. I've probably had 3 Power steering hoses replaced so far (different parts of the car). You may also need a 2nd person to see under the car to see/hear where the sounds may be originating from. Other sources of steering noises are the front suspension top mounts, steering column and lower arms.

Thanks, everyone, it is very helpful. I am going to change the fluid first. I was searching original Pensotin CHF-11S however it is not available in the United Arab Emirates. I ordered and today seller canceled my order due to a lack of stock. There is Fuchs Titan CHF 11S. According to this website , it is the same as Pensotin. What do you think? Amazon link; Amazon.ae

Fuchs and Pensotin are basically the same company (Fuchs bought Pensotin in 2015). I wouldn't be concerned about compatibility.

Thanks @deilenberger , I bought Fuchs. and checked the oil level. It was normal between min and max. So I think there is no leakage. I thought maybe the oil quality is bad, I see people removing and adding new oil until the color becomes clear. I did it five times and the oil color become green (like a new pentosin color) you can see in the picture. however steering is still stiff, and nothing is changed. The same noise is coming when I steer in a stationary position. Do you think the steering pump is the problem?

Just a comment here. Those markings are not Min and Max. They are Hot and Cold levels. I'm not sure it matters for your issue but thought I'd bring it to the attention of you and others.

Thanks @RSchwerer @deilenberger Any idea about the issue? Do you think changing steering pump might work?

Before replacing the power steering pump , you might consider the power-steering reservoir. If it's like other Porsches I've played with - there is a filter in the bottom of the reservoir. It's molded in as part of the reservoir, so it can only be changed by changing the reservoir. If the filter gets plugged up - the pump will have to work harder and may cavitate which can cause noise. The fix - new reservoir. If that doesn't work - then the next step would probably be the pump.. but I would want to hear the noise coming from the pump (a mechanic's stethoscope works well..)

This thread is awesome! Mine started doing this and I was thinking I have to replace the pump $$$. (2010 987.2 Porsche Boxster base convertible, USA) So before I do that I am going to check if it is evaporation or a leak. I found this helpful: Genuine and OEM Replacement Car Parts Online | BMW Volvo Audi VW Mercedes Porsche Saab | FCP Euro The #1 Online Source for Genuine, OE, & OEM European Replacement Car Parts since 1986. Lifetime Replacement Guarantee, Free Shipping, and Unlimited Returns Call: [phone removed] www.fcpeuro.com CHF202 Fluid (1 Liter) - Pentosin 00004330574 SKU: PEN-8403107 CHF 11S Hydraulic System Fluid - Pentosin 1405116 SKU: PEN-1405116 Side note: Here's How To Pick The Right Power Steering Fluid For Your Car All the answers are right here. Power steering fluid is a fluid driven by a pump that supplies fluid under pressure to our steering rack. This allows us to turn the steering wheel which turns the front wheels effortlessly. Those that have driven an older car with no power steering will know... blog.fcpeuro.com Porsche Power Steering Pump - Genuine Porsche 9A131402016 SKU: POR-9A131402016 Porsche Power Steering Reservoir Seal (O-RING) - German 99970720440 SKU: GER-99970720440