What Causes the Clicking Sound When Turning the Steering Wheel After Replacing the Shock Absorber?
3 Answers
After replacing the shock absorber, the steering wheel may produce abnormal sounds for the following reasons: 1. Damaged turn signal return spring causing noise: If the sound occurs only after activating the turn signal and then turning the steering wheel, it is the sound from the return spring of the turn signal auto-return mechanism. This sound is normal and is designed for the convenience of the driver. 2. Noise from the steering column dust cover: Whether stationary or driving, if you hear a sound coming from below the steering wheel when turning it, you should check the steering column dust cover. Lack of lubrication in the dust cover can cause dry friction sounds. Applying some grease inside the dust cover will eliminate this noise.
I just had my car's shock absorbers replaced a few days ago, and then noticed a clunking sound from the chassis when steering. After repeated troubleshooting with the mechanic, we finally figured it out. The most likely cause is that the top mount bearing (also called thrust bearing) of the shock absorber wasn't installed properly. This component sits between the spring top seat and the vehicle frame, and needs to rotate when turning the steering wheel. If the bolts weren't torqued correctly during installation or if the bearing itself was crushed, it would make cracking sounds when steering. Additionally, if the spring base wasn't aligned properly during shock replacement, friction between the spring and its seat could also produce this kind of metallic collision noise. By the way, some cheap aftermarket parts have dimensional inaccuracies - if they create incorrect clearance with the steering knuckle, the components might bind and make noise during steering. I recommend going back to the repair shop immediately to have it checked on a lift. Last time I had this issue, it was solved by disassembling and readjusting everything. Driving with abnormal noises always makes me uneasy.
Last week, I replaced all four shock absorbers on my old car, but now when making U-turns, there's a clunking sound under the steering wheel. The mechanic said it's most likely an issue with the thrust bearing - it's like a rotating disc with ball bearings that supports the spring. When replacing shock absorbers, this part needs to be removed. If sand gets into the ball bearing track during reassembly, or if there's insufficient grease applied, it can cause stiffness and dull thuds when turning. Another possibility is that the rubber bump stop on the top mount wasn't installed properly, causing metal-to-metal contact. Now I listen carefully every time I go over speed bumps and notice it's particularly noticeable when turning slowly. The recommendation is to have a mechanic loosen the three bolts at the top of the shock absorber, realign everything properly, and retighten - my neighbor's car was fixed this way.
