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Clicking noise when turning

Repeated clicking while turning can point toward a CV joint, but brakes, wheel and suspension parts can sound similar. See the clues that help narrow it down.

A repeated click or knock while turning is commonly associated with an outer CV joint, especially when accelerating on steering lock, but the location and exact conditions matter before blaming a driveshaft.

Details that help narrow it down

  • Repeated clicking or one single clunk?
  • Only on full lock or at smaller steering angles too?
  • Worse while accelerating?
  • Any split CV boot or visible grease?

When a CV joint is more likely

A rhythmic clicking that becomes obvious on full or near-full steering lock and changes with wheel speed is a classic outer-CV-joint pattern. A split CV boot and escaped grease make that diagnosis more plausible.

Other causes to consider

Brake shields, loose wheel hardware, suspension joints, top mounts and other rotating components can also click or knock while steering. A single clunk as the steering direction changes is different from a repeated click every wheel rotation.

Useful checks

Note whether the sound is left or right, whether it happens while accelerating or coasting, and whether it appears only at large steering angles. A visual check of CV boots can reveal splits or grease thrown around the inside of the wheel.

Diagnose your exact symptoms

Describe what your vehicle is doing and AutoAid can use the details, your saved vehicle and any OBD-II code to narrow the likely causes.

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Related AutoAid guides

Symptom pages are a starting point, not a confirmed diagnosis. If braking, steering, overheating, smoke or another safety-critical problem is present, stop somewhere safe and arrange professional inspection.