The most common causes
- Sway bar links: a light clunk or rattle over small bumps, often on one side
- Ball joints: a heavier knock, sometimes with wandering steering
- Tie rod ends: a clunk with loose or vague steering
- Strut mounts and bearings: a knock or creak when turning or going over bumps
- Control arm bushings: a thud over bumps and a feeling of looseness
- Loose exhaust hangers or heat shields: a rattle under the car rather than a clunk
When it's urgent
A clunk together with loose, wandering or heavy steering, or a wheel that looks tilted, needs checking right away. A failed ball joint or tie rod can affect your control of the car.
What we do
We put the car on the hoist and check each part for play, show you the worn one, and quote before any work. A suspension inspection is $50 & up. After steering parts are replaced, the car usually needs an alignment.