Why does the car make a clunking sound when going over a speed bump?
2 Answers
When a car makes a clunking sound while going over a speed bump, it is usually caused by a loose stabilizer bar or a faulty shock absorber. Here is some relevant information: 1. Speed bumps: Also known as speed humps, speed bumps are traffic calming devices installed on roads to slow down passing vehicles. They are typically shaped like strips or dots, made mostly of rubber or sometimes metal, and are often painted in alternating yellow and black colors for visual attention. They slightly raise the road surface to force vehicles to reduce speed. 2. Precautions: Avoid crossing speed bumps at high speeds, especially for vehicles with low ground clearance. Always remember to control your speed when passing over speed bumps. Driving over speed bumps will inevitably cause some impact on the vehicle, but keeping the speed low will help minimize this impact within the vehicle's tolerable range.
When a car makes a clunking sound over speed bumps, the first thing that comes to mind is a problem with the suspension system, such as worn shock absorbers or loose linkages, because these components bear a lot of impact and will rattle if they become loose. I once had this issue while driving—every time I went over a speed bump, I heard a loud noise. Later, an inspection revealed that the bushings on the suspension arms had aged, and over time, the metal-on-metal collision sounds emerged. This needs to be addressed early, as it affects safety, making the car unstable when turning at higher speeds. Loose brake calipers or chassis bolts can also cause noise. For a quick check, you can try shaking the wheels to see if there’s any wobble, but it’s best to have a professional take a look. They can tighten things up with tools or replace parts as needed. Avoiding rough roads can help delay wear and tear, and during maintenance, remind the technician to inspect the suspension to prevent sudden failures. In short, don’t ignore these small sounds—prevention is always better than costly repairs.
