What Causes the Clicking Sound in Tires When Turning a Car?
3 Answers
Possible causes of the clicking sound in the vehicle are as follows: 1. Sound from the turn signal reset. If the turn signal is activated while turning, the sound might be from the rebound clip of the turn signal's automatic reset mechanism. The driver should verify this; if confirmed, it is a normal condition. 2. Friction between plastic parts. The steering wheel is usually made of plastic components. If the temperature drops, the plastic hardens, which can naturally produce friction sounds. 3. Abnormal noise from the steering wheel. If the noise comes from inside the steering wheel, the issue is likely caused by the clock spring (spiral cable) of the airbag. Remove the airbag clock spring, apply some grease, and check if the noise persists. If it does, replace the clock spring. 4. Aging of the steering tie rod end. If the steering tie rod end is aged, it can cause the steering wheel to shake and produce abnormal noises. In such cases, the steering tie rod end should typically be replaced, followed by a four-wheel alignment.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I believe that the clunking sound from tires during turns could involve multiple factors. The most common issue is tire-related, such as bulges or uneven wear, which cause uneven force distribution on the wheels during turns, leading to such noises. Alternatively, tire pressure being too high or too low can result in deformation and vibration. Another major cause is aging suspension components, like worn-out shock absorbers or loose stabilizer links, which fail to control vehicle sway and produce clunking sounds. Steering system problems, such as worn or loose tie rod ends, can also create metallic knocking noises during turns. I recommend starting with a simple self-check: verify that all four tires have consistent pressure and remove any stones stuck in the tread grooves. If the noise persists, promptly visit a repair shop for a thorough inspection of bearings or chassis safety. Don’t delay until steering failure causes an accident—regular maintenance of the undercarriage can prevent issues proactively.
My experience in car repair tells me that this kind of clunking sound is mostly caused by mechanical failures. Incorrect tire pressure or uneven surfaces can cause vibration noises; wear in steering system components like tie rods or universal joints can lead to loose and noisy turns; insufficient lubrication in wheel bearings can also produce continuous clunking sounds. Sometimes, suspension issues like a damaged stabilizer bar can cause severe body instability and shaking. I always remind fellow drivers not to overlook this problem: first visually inspect the tires for bulges or foreign objects, then lift the car to check for loose points in the chassis. If not repaired in time, it could lead to steering failure, posing a huge safety risk. Quickly visit a professional shop for a tool-based diagnosis—replacing a faulty part can solve the issue. Driving safety is no small matter.
