What causes the clunking sound when driving over potholes?
2 Answers
When driving over potholes, the clunking sound you hear is a metallic noise, which occurs when the shock absorber compresses beyond its limit and bottoms out. Here's some relevant information about automotive shock absorbers: Introduction: To quickly dampen vibrations between the frame and body, and to improve ride smoothness and comfort, shock absorbers are generally installed in the vehicle's suspension system. The most widely used type in automobiles is the double-acting telescopic shock absorber. 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 working properly. (2) When driving slowly and applying emergency brakes, if the car vibrates excessively, it suggests there may be an issue with the shock absorber.
Hearing a loud clunk when the car goes over a bump usually indicates looseness or damage in the chassis or suspension system. I've encountered this several times before, and it feels like it could be caused by aging shock absorbers or suspension springs, especially in older vehicles. When driving over rough roads, if the components aren't securely fixed, they can make noise upon impact. It's worth checking if the suspension ball joints and connecting rods are severely worn. Additionally, it could be due to loose brake calipers or issues with the steering system, making the car feel unstable or even affecting handling safety. I recommend taking the car to a repair shop to have the chassis inspected thoroughly. Regularly tightening bolts during routine maintenance can help prevent such issues. After all, driving with constant safety concerns is no small matter.
