What Does a Clicking Sound When I Turn Mean?
If you hear a clicking sound when you turn, a worn CV joint is one of the most common causes. The noise may be louder during a sharp turn, such as when you pull into a parking space or make a U-turn.
CV joints are part of the axle system that sends power to the wheels. When a joint or its protective boot wears out, clicking can start and may get worse over time.
What Causes a Clicking Sound When Turning?
A clicking noise during a turn can come from more than one part. Common causes include:
- A worn CV joint
- A torn CV boot
- A damaged CV axle
- Loose or worn steering parts
- Other suspension or drivetrain problems
The sound and when it happens can give us clues, but an inspection is the best way to find the cause.
Can a Bad CV Joint Make a Clicking Noise?
Yes. A worn outer CV joint often clicks when the wheels are turned and the vehicle is moving. The clicking may speed up as the vehicle moves faster.
The joint has to move while also sending power to the wheel. Once it wears, that movement can create the clicking sound you hear.
What Does a Torn CV Boot Have to Do With It?
A rubber boot covers the CV joint and keeps grease inside. It also helps keep dirt and water out.
If the boot tears, grease can leak out and dirt can get in. The joint may then wear much faster. Finding a torn boot early may help prevent a larger axle problem.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Clicking CV Joint?
A clicking CV joint should be checked soon. The noise may start small, but the joint can keep wearing as you drive.
If the clicking gets louder, you feel a vibration, or the vehicle starts driving differently, have it inspected as soon as possible.
Can Fixing It Early Save Money?
Yes. Finding a damaged boot or worn axle early can help keep the problem from getting worse. Waiting may lead to more wear and could leave you with a vehicle that cannot move under its own power.
A quick inspection can tell you if the noise is coming from the CV axle or another steering or suspension part.
Schedule a Drivetrain Inspection in The Colony, TX
If your car clicks when turning, let us find the cause. At David's Automotive Repair, we can check the CV joints, CV axles, steering, suspension, and other drivetrain parts.
Call
David's Automotive Repair at
972-625-1836 or tap the ‘Make Reservation’ button to schedule your service online. We provide CV axle repair, drivetrain inspection, and auto repair in
The Colony, TX, for drivers from
Frisco, Little Elm, Plano, Lewisville, and nearby
North Texas communities.
