What causes the clunking sound when driving over a pothole?
2 Answers
The clunking sound heard when driving over a pothole is a metallic noise, which occurs when the shock absorber compresses beyond its limit and bottoms out. Below is relevant information about automotive shock absorbers: 1. Introduction: To quickly dampen vibrations between the frame and body, improving ride smoothness and comfort, shock absorbers are generally installed in a vehicle's suspension system. The most widely used type in automobiles is the double-acting telescopic shock absorber. 2. Fault detection: (1) Press down hard on the bumper and then release it. If the car bounces 2-3 times, it indicates the shock absorber is functioning properly. (2) When driving slowly and applying emergency brakes, if the vehicle vibrates excessively, it suggests there may be an issue with the shock absorber.
I remember once driving over a bumpy road when suddenly there was a loud clunk from under the car, startling me so much I almost slammed on the brakes. This is usually a sign of issues with the car's suspension system, such as broken shock absorbers, loose control arms, or worn ball joints, which are supposed to absorb the impact of bumps. If they're damaged, components can collide and make noise when going over potholes. Additionally, parts underneath the chassis like the exhaust pipe or underbody panels might shift and hit the car body if not properly secured. Steering components, like loose tie rods, can also produce that kind of noise. What's worse is that ignoring these sounds can turn minor issues into major problems, compromising driving safety. I think it's best to get it checked at a repair shop as soon as possible—safety first. Regular maintenance checks on the chassis condition can help avoid such troubles. A friend of mine ignored similar noises and ended up spending thousands on suspension repairs.
