Car clicking when turning
The buyer question: "car clicking when turning"
Arrange an inspection before a long trip. Stop driving if the clicking comes with loose steering, strong vibration, a damaged tire, or a sudden change in control.
What could cause it
More than one problem can cause the same symptom. These are places to inspect, not a diagnosis.
- A worn or damaged outer drive joint
- A tire, wheel, splash shield, or brake component contacting another part
- Steering or suspension wear
- A loose or damaged fastener after wheel or suspension work
Safe things to check
Keep clear of moving parts, hot components, and traffic. Use the owner's manual for vehicle-specific instructions.
- Note whether the click repeats with each wheel rotation or only at full steering lock
- Look for tire damage or a loose plastic shield from outside the vehicle
- Avoid turning the wheel against a stop repeatedly to reproduce the noise
Do not continue if the steering feels loose, the noise becomes a clunk, the vehicle vibrates severely, or a wheel or tire looks damaged. Have the vehicle inspected or towed.
What a mechanic may check
A mechanic may inspect drive joints and boots, wheel bearings, steering and suspension joints, wheel fasteners, brakes, and tire clearance around the wheel.
If you are considering this car
During a test drive, ask the seller to reproduce the noise with a technician present. A click that appears only on tight turns still needs to be documented before you buy.
Questions for the seller
- Does it click on left turns, right turns, acceleration, or all three?
- Has any axle, wheel, suspension, or brake work been done recently?
- Will the seller approve an independent inspection on a lift?