Knocking Sound When Turning on Car: Causes & Fixes

February 26, 2025

Driving should be a smooth and pleasant experience, but sometimes unexpected challenges arise, like the knocking sound when turning on car. This issue is often encountered at low speeds, especially when turning the steering wheel all the way to the right or left. Among the potential culprits are loose or damaged tie rods, essential components that allow your wheels to respond to steering inputs. A misalignment here might result in the familiar knocking, clunking, or creaking noises.

The Knocking Sound When Turning on Car Explained

This knocking noise is often noticed when taking sharp bends, typically at speeds around 30-40 kph. More pronounced under these conditions, the sound tends to emanate from the outer front wheel area in front-wheel-drive cars. Despite efforts to reproduce the noise at the mechanic's during testing, its elusive nature can perplex even experienced professionals.

One potential source of the problem is the CV axle. An uneven rotation during testing, particularly when the affected wheel is lifted and run in 2nd gear, suggests this may be contributing to the issue. Though suspension, steering rack, and other parts have been recently serviced, the CV axle remains a prime suspect in generating the dreaded knocking sound.

Common Causes of Clunking Sounds

Aside from tie rods, several other issues might cause clunking noises when turning:

  • Broken sway bar link
  • Bad ball joints
  • Faulty strut bearing plate

These components, when compromised, can lead to symptoms like difficulty steering, tire wear, vibrations, and poor vehicle handling. Resolving these issues quickly is crucial to avoid more significant problems and expensive repairs down the line.

Steps to Resolution

To address the knocking sound when turning on car, seek a reliable mechanic's expertise. Experienced professionals can diagnose and fix tie rods, sway bar links, ball joints, and other relevant parts. Some service locations, like Wonderland Tire, specialize in replacing faulty components and ensuring your drive remains hassle-free.

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