Hearing a clicking noise when turning your car can be unsettling. It’s easy to brush it off as a minor annoyance, but that sound often signals an underlying issue that shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s coming from the front or rear of the vehicle, a clicking noise can indicate anything from worn-out suspension components to failing CV joints. The sooner you identify the cause, the better you can prevent further damage.
What Causes a Clicking Noise When Turning
Clicking sounds don’t just appear out of nowhere. They’re often linked to parts that experience heavy wear over time. The most common culprits include:
Failing CV Joints
Constant velocity (CV) joints allow your wheels to flex while maintaining a consistent power supply from the engine. Over time, these joints wear down, especially if the protective boot covering them cracks or leaks. When grease escapes, dirt and moisture get inside, leading to deterioration. If you hear clicking, particularly when making sharp turns, a worn-out CV joint is likely the cause.
Damaged or Loose Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings help your wheels rotate with minimal friction. If they wear out or become loose, they can produce a clicking or grinding noise, particularly when turning. Unlike CV joints, bad wheel bearings often cause a growling sound that changes with speed. If left unaddressed, a faulty bearing can lead to wheel instability and unsafe driving conditions.
Worn Ball Joints
Ball joints connect your suspension to the wheels, allowing for smooth movement as you steer. When they wear out or lose lubrication, they can start clicking or popping when turning. A failing ball joint can make your steering feel loose, affecting your ability to control the vehicle.
Issues with the Axles
A clicking noise might also stem from a damaged or bent axle. If your vehicle has been in an accident or hit a large pothole, the axle may have suffered damage. Even a small bend can create a rhythmic clicking sound, particularly when making turns or accelerating.
Loose Lug Nuts
Sometimes, the cause is much simpler than you’d expect. If the lug nuts securing your wheel are loose, the wheel may shift slightly when turning, creating a clicking or clunking sound. This is an urgent issue—loose lug nuts can cause the wheel to detach while driving.
When Should You Be Concerned
Any unusual noise from your car should be taken seriously, but clicking while turning is a sign of parts wearing down or failing. If the noise is persistent, getting your vehicle inspected sooner rather than later can prevent serious problems. In cases where the clicking sound is accompanied by difficulty steering, vibrations, or instability, immediate attention is needed.
For drivers in Huntington Beach, CA, dealing with rough roads or stop-and-go traffic can put additional stress on the suspension and steering components, making routine inspections even more critical. Catching issues early can help extend the life of your vehicle and keep it driving reliably.
How to Fix a Clicking Noise When Turning
The solution depends on the root cause of the issue. Replacing CV joints or wheel bearings requires a professional’s touch, as they play a crucial role in your car’s drivability. If loose lug nuts are the problem, tightening them right away may eliminate the sound. However, if clicking continues, a deeper inspection is needed to pinpoint the problem.
Don’t Ignore That Clicking Sound
A clicking noise when turning isn’t something to ignore. Whether it’s a minor issue or a sign of a bigger problem, getting it checked by an expert can save you from expensive repairs down the line.
Need a professional to take a look? Visit H B Auto & AC in Huntington Beach, CA for a full inspection and expert repair services.