Why does the car make a clunking noise when turning?
2 Answers
The following are the reasons for abnormal noises when the car turns: 1. Excessive accumulation of foreign objects on the fenders or sound insulation pads of the front wheels. When the car turns, the tires interfere with the foreign objects, resulting in abnormal noises. After cleaning the fenders, the tire noise will disappear. 2. The fastening screws of the fenders or sound insulation pads have fallen off, causing the fenders or sound insulation pads to lift. The front wheels interfere with them when turning, creating friction and abnormal noises. It is necessary to check the fastening condition of the fenders and sound insulation pads and eliminate factors such as looseness and lifting. 3. The car tires have been privately modified, replacing them with non-original size tires. For example, widening the tires or increasing the diameter, etc. When the car turns, the tires will interfere with the body at a certain position, resulting in noise. This poses a significant safety hazard, and the tires should be replaced with the original size.
I used to experience a clunking noise from the chassis when turning corners with my old car. It made a single loud knock sound every time I turned, which was quite alarming. Later, I took it to a repair shop for inspection, and the mechanic said the steering tie rod ball joint had become loose. When the wheel angles change during turns, excessive play in the worn ball joint causes abnormal noises. He also checked the CV joints on the drive shafts, mentioning that if the CV boot was damaged, the noise would be more continuous—fortunately, mine wasn't the case. Additionally, if the stabilizer bar links in the suspension system are loose or the rubber bushings have aged, body roll during turns can also produce collision noises. I recommend you visit a professional shop immediately for a lift inspection, as steering issues directly affect handling safety—don't delay and risk parts detaching. In my case, I just replaced the ball joint, which cost me a little over 300 RMB, and now the clunking noise is completely gone when driving.
