What Causes A Clunking Noise When Going Over Bumps?

If you hear those annoying clunking noises when going over bumps, it means that something is wrong with the suspension system. Since the suspension system includes various parts, any of them could be faulty. These are the areas to check the next time you hear these sounds on the road.

Worn or Damaged Struts

When struts are damaged, the strut shocks fail to perform as they should. Also, the strut housing may get dented, causing shocks to keep popping in and out of the strut tube. You can also try to steer the car wheels and check for noises.

Worn or Damaged Leaf Spring Shackles

Leaf springs are found on trailers, trucks, vans, and SUVs to aid in off-road conditions. Unfortunately, leaf springs may bend or break. When they do, they produce a clunking sound. This problem is usually found on one end of the leaf spring shackles.

Damaged or Worn Control Arms

Control arms can wear out even in normal road conditions. The damage and wear are accelerated if you drive in off-road conditions. Worn-out control arms may cause the wheels to move out of alignment, which causes the vehicle to make the clunking as you steer the wheels on a bump. The damage may be extended to the body mount and cause the cab compartment to vibrate.

Bad Ball Joints

Broken ball joints make it hard for the driver to steer the vehicle in a straight line. When the joint housing comes off, it causes the grime or sand to get into the joint, generating sounds as the car moves. Besides, if the joint is dented, the ball may keep coming in and out of the housing, making a clunking noise as it moves.

Worn Shock Absorbers

A shock absorber is a damper that is designed to absorb impulses from the wheels. Shock absorbers make driving in rough terrain bearable, but they are also prone to damage. If they break, you will hear some tapping noise, especially if the bushing is cracked. The car will also veer from side to side on the road.

If you need vehicle repair, visit our auto repair shop today for professional repair service.

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