How to Fix a Car That Is Making a Clicking Sound When Turning

1. Identifying the Clicking Sound

It was a quiet evening when I first heard that unmistakable clicking sound coming from my car’s front end as I turned the steering wheel. It wasn't very loud, but it was distinct enough to catch my attention. I immediately knew something wasn’t right. The clicking sound, usually associated with turning, often signals a mechanical issue in your car. As a car owner, I've had my fair share of car troubles, but this particular sound made me realize that I needed to address it before it escalated into something more serious.

The clicking sound is most commonly heard when turning the steering wheel, and it often increases in frequency as the turn becomes sharper. While this sound can be harmless at times, it can also indicate a serious mechanical issue that requires immediate attention. Over the years, I’ve learned that ignoring these sounds can lead to larger, more expensive problems down the road. In my case, I decided to figure out what was causing the clicking sound to ensure my car’s safety and reliability.

2. Common Causes of Clicking Sounds When Turning

After hearing the clicking sound in my car, I began researching and quickly discovered that there are several common culprits for this type of noise. In most cases, the issue lies within the car's drivetrain system, specifically related to the parts responsible for turning the wheels and steering the vehicle. Here’s what I found out about the most likely causes:

• CV Joints (Constant Velocity Joints): One of the most common causes of a clicking sound when turning is a faulty CV joint. The CV joint is part of the axle that connects the wheels to the transmission. It’s designed to transmit power from the engine to the wheels while allowing for smooth turning. If the CV joint is damaged or worn, it can cause a clicking noise, especially when turning or accelerating. I personally experienced this problem once when I noticed the clicking sound was more pronounced during sharp turns.
• Worn-out Wheel Bearings: Another possibility for the clicking sound is worn-out wheel bearings. These bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly, and if they are damaged, they can produce a clicking or grinding sound when turning. After inspecting my car, I found that my wheel bearings were showing signs of wear, and the clicking sound would change in pitch depending on the speed of the car.
• Suspension Issues: A less common but still possible cause for the clicking sound could be an issue with the suspension components. Worn-out suspension parts, such as struts or bushings, can cause strange noises when turning. While this wasn't the issue in my case, I learned that faulty suspension components could lead to further problems with handling and stability.
• Power Steering Problems: If the clicking sound is accompanied by difficulty turning the steering wheel, the problem might lie within the power steering system. The power steering pump, rack, or fluid could be malfunctioning, leading to unusual noises when turning the wheel. I’ve experienced issues with power steering fluid before, and low fluid levels can often cause a similar clicking or whining sound.

Understanding these common causes was my first step toward solving the problem. However, just knowing what might be wrong wasn’t enough. I had to inspect my car thoroughly to identify the exact issue.

3. How to Inspect Your Car for the Clicking Sound

As someone who enjoys working on my car, I decided to take matters into my own hands and perform a quick inspection. While I’m not a professional mechanic, I’ve learned enough over the years to identify potential problems by following a few simple steps. Here's how I approached diagnosing the clicking sound:

• Test the Car’s Behavior: The first thing I did was test the car by driving it around and turning the wheel in both directions. I paid close attention to the intensity and frequency of the clicking sound. I noticed that the sound was much more noticeable during tight, sharp turns, which pointed me in the direction of the CV joint.
• Visual Inspection of the CV Joints: I checked the CV joints for visible damage, such as torn boots or grease leakage. A torn CV joint boot is a clear indicator that the joint has lost lubrication and is likely the cause of the clicking sound. In my case, I found that one of the boots was damaged, which confirmed that the CV joint was the culprit.
• Examine the Wheel Bearings: I also checked the wheel bearings by lifting the car and spinning the wheels manually. If the wheels make a grinding noise or feel rough to rotate, it’s a sign that the wheel bearings are worn out. Fortunately, my wheel bearings were in good shape, which led me to focus more on the CV joint issue.
• Check for Suspension and Steering Issues: I also inspected the suspension system for any visible signs of wear or damage. I checked the struts, bushings, and control arms. Everything appeared to be in good condition, so I ruled out suspension-related problems. I also checked the power steering fluid levels, as low fluid can cause a clicking sound. Fortunately, the fluid levels were fine.

By performing this thorough inspection, I was able to narrow down the problem to the CV joint, which was the primary cause of the clicking sound in my car. Having a solid understanding of how these components work and how to inspect them helped me feel more confident in diagnosing the issue on my own.

4. How to Fix a Broken CV Joint

After identifying that the CV joint was the cause of the clicking sound, I knew I had to replace it. CV joint replacement is a fairly complicated job, and I wasn’t sure if I had the experience or tools needed to do it myself. However, I’ve always been determined to save money by doing repairs myself when possible. Here’s what I did to fix the broken CV joint:

• Prepare the Necessary Tools and Parts: I gathered the necessary tools for the job, including a jack, a jack stand, a lug wrench, a socket set, and the replacement CV joint. I also made sure I had safety gloves and glasses to protect myself during the process.
• Lift the Car: The first step was to safely lift the car and remove the wheel. I used the jack to lift the car and placed the jack stand underneath to ensure it was stable before working underneath it. Removing the wheel gave me access to the axle and CV joint.
• Remove the Damaged CV Joint: I then used the socket set to remove the bolts that held the damaged CV joint in place. I had to carefully disconnect the joint from the axle, which required some patience as these parts can sometimes be stuck due to dirt or rust. After loosening the bolts, I was able to remove the old CV joint and install the new one.
• Reassemble the Parts: Once the new CV joint was in place, I carefully reassembled the axle and secured everything with the bolts. I made sure all parts were tightly fitted to avoid any loose components when I drove the car again. Finally, I replaced the wheel and lowered the car.

Replacing a CV joint can be a complex process, but with the right tools and patience, it’s certainly doable. However, I recommend seeking professional help if you’re not confident in your mechanical skills or if the repair requires additional components such as the axle. In my case, the new CV joint fixed the clicking sound, and the car felt smooth when turning again.

5. When to Call for Professional Help

While I managed to fix the clicking sound caused by the broken CV joint, I realized that not all car issues should be handled DIY-style. There are times when it's better to call in the experts. For example, if you’re not comfortable diagnosing or repairing complex issues, or if you don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to call a professional mechanic.

Additionally, if the issue is more complicated, such as problems with the transmission or suspension, it’s always safer to leave it to a trained technician. In these cases, towing the car to a professional repair shop is a good option. I’ve relied on Rescue & Towing in the past when my car required professional repairs, and their team was quick to assist. They offer reliable towing services and are equipped to handle various mechanical issues, ensuring your car gets the care it needs.

6. Preventing Future Clicking Sounds

Now that the clicking sound was fixed, I became more vigilant about my car’s maintenance to prevent future issues. Regular inspections of the CV joints, wheel bearings, and suspension components have become part of my routine. I also check the power steering fluid and ensure the suspension is properly lubricated.

Proper driving habits, like avoiding hard turns at high speeds, also help reduce wear and tear on these crucial components. By being proactive with maintenance, I’ve been able to enjoy smooth driving and prevent unnecessary repairs. Regular service checks and a little attention to detail can go a long way in keeping your car in top condition.

7. Conclusion

Fixing a car that’s making a clicking sound when turning may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge, tools, and approach, it’s possible to tackle the issue yourself. In my case, diagnosing the problem and replacing the CV joint helped restore my car to its smooth, noise-free state. If you're unsure or don’t feel comfortable handling the repairs, don't hesitate to call for professional help. Services like Rescue & Towing can assist with towing and repairs, ensuring your car is back on the road safely and quickly.