Clunking in Front End - What Could It Be?

Technical Discussions
1

I’ve recently noticed a clunking noise coming from the front end of my car when I hit bumps or turn. It sounds like it could be something in the suspension, but I’m not sure where to start diagnosing the issue.

Here are some details about my car:

  • Make and Model: [Your Car’s Make & Model]
  • Year: [Your Car’s Year]
  • Mileage: [Your Car’s Mileage]

Has anyone else experienced this kind of issue? Here are some thoughts I have regarding potential causes:

  • Worn Stabilizer End Links: I’ve heard these can make noise when they’re worn out.
  • Strut Mounts: Could worn strut mounts contribute to this type of noise?
  • Control Arm Bushings: Are these something that should be checked as well?

I’m looking for any advice on how to diagnose the problem, tips for checking these components, or if anyone had similar experiences. Also, if you could point me towards any resources or repair guides, that would be awesome! Thanks in advance for any help!

P.S. If you’ve had a clunk and fixed it, please share what ended up being the issue and how you resolved it!

2

I’ve been hearing a clunking sound too! It’s mostly when I hit bumps. I suspect it could be worn suspension components. Have you checked your struts or shocks?

3

Definitely check the control arm bushings too. They can wear out over time and create a clunk when going over bumps.

6 Likes
4

I had a similar problem! It turned out to be a loose bolt on the sway bar. Just something simple that ended up being annoying. Always good to double-check those!

5

That’s a great point! Sometimes it’s the simplest things we overlook. Has anyone checked the sway bar end links?

6

I think it’s really important to consider the steering system too. If there’s play in the rack and pinion, that could cause clunks. Has anyone checked that?

7

I haven’t, but now I’m curious! How would one even check for play in the steering system?

8

You can check for play by jacking the front end up, then wiggling the steering wheel. If anything feels loose, it might be time to take a closer look!

9

It might also be worth looking at the CV joints. They can start to make noise if they’re worn out too. Clunks might not just be from suspension issues.

10

I’ve been monitoring mine and noticed clunking when making tight turns. Could that relate to the CV joints you mentioned, or is that something different?

11

Yes! A clicking or clunking noise during turns often indicates a problem with the CV joints. Definitely check those!

12

Let’s not forget about the bushings that connect the control arms; they can degrade over time too. It’s a shame they’re often the unsung heroes!

13

True! Regular inspections might help catch those issues before they become serious problems. Have you all had your vehicles checked recently?

14

I just had mine checked, but they didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary. It’s just frustrating when you can hear the noise and no one can figure it out!

15

I feel your pain! It’s like having a pesky ghost in the car. Sometimes, just hitting the right bump can help diagnose the issue.

16

Ha! A ghost in the car! Well, it may be time to pull out the mechanic’s tools and do some investigating. Who knows what you might find lurking around!

4 Likes
17

I’m convinced sometimes cars just like to make noise for attention. But seriously, if it keeps up, get a second opinion!

18

Wise words! It never hurts to seek more perspectives. Cars can be a mystery to decode together.

19

I’ve been dealing with a clunking noise in my front end for a while. I’ve heard that replacing the bushings could help. Has anyone tried that?

5 Likes
20

I replaced my bushings last month, and it made a huge difference! Highly recommend checking those first.