What Causes a Clicking Sound When Turning the Car?
3 Answers
The reasons for a clicking sound when turning the car are as follows: Sound from the turn signal reset: If the turn signal is activated while turning, the sound may be produced by the rebound latch of the turn signal's automatic reset mechanism, which is normal. Sometimes, more than one click is heard because the steering column has three automatic reset positions per full rotation. Turning the steering wheel one full rotation will result in three clicks. Noise from the steering column dust cover: If the noise comes from below the steering wheel, it may be due to the steering column dust cover. Lack of lubrication in the dust cover can cause friction noises. Applying some grease inside the dust cover will eliminate the noise. Noise from the steering wheel: If the noise originates from the steering wheel, it is likely caused by the clock spring (airbag coil). Removing the steering wheel and applying grease to the clock spring may resolve the issue. If the noise persists, replacing the clock spring is recommended.
Last time I drove my friend's car and heard a clunking sound when turning, suspecting some loose part in the chassis. I crawled under and checked the tie rod end ball joint, and sure enough, there was play. The mechanic said a loose ball joint can cause metal parts to collide and make noise during turns. Another common cause is a faulty outer CV joint, especially noticeable in front-wheel-drive cars when power is applied during turns. Worn or cracked stabilizer bar bushings and damaged shock absorber top mounts—any of these chassis components failing can lead to abnormal noises. I recommend focusing on checking these areas. Excessive play in the ball joint can make the steering feel vague, affecting handling and posing a safety risk. If the noise persists, don’t hesitate to get the car lifted for a thorough inspection at the shop. After all, steering system issues shouldn’t be delayed.
After driving for 20 years, I've often encountered this kind of abnormal noise. The clunking sound is mostly caused by aging and loosening of suspension components. Common issues include cracked rubber bushings on the lower control arms, where the shift in the vehicle's center of gravity during turns causes direct metal-to-metal contact and friction, resulting in noise. Another frequent problem is excessive wear in the stabilizer bar link ball joints, which creates noticeable metallic sounds under lateral forces during cornering. Loose or worn steering rack components can also be a potential cause, though less likely. Recently, my car made similar noises during sharp turns, and maintenance revealed that the right inner CV joint boot was torn, allowing debris to enter and cause wear-related noise. Such issues, if left unaddressed, can lead to wheel bearing damage, so it's best to replace them promptly for peace of mind.
