When your car makes a clunking sound during turns, it’s often a symptom of suspension or steering component wear.
The sound might happen:
- Only at low speeds
- When turning left or right
- While going over bumps
- After hitting a pothole
But here’s the thing: that “clunk” is diagnostic gold. The more specific the sound and when it happens, the easier it is to pinpoint the cause.
🔧 Common Causes of a Clunking Noise When Turning
Let’s break down the most likely suspects.
1. Worn Ball Joints
What they do: Ball joints connect your suspension to your wheels and allow them to move in multiple directions.
Symptoms of failure:
- Clunking when turning or going over bumps
- Loose steering feel
- Uneven tire wear
If ball joints are failing, they can allow too much movement, leading to that unmistakable metal-on-metal clunk.
Pro tip: Jack up the front end and wiggle the tire back and forth—if there’s play, your ball joints may be toast.
2. Bad Tie Rod Ends
What they do: Tie rods connect your steering rack to your wheels. They help your tires respond to steering input.
Symptoms of failure:
- Clunking or knocking noise
- Loose or wandering steering
- Vibration while turning
Loose or worn tie rods allow your wheels to shift independently—hence, the clunk.
3. Faulty Sway Bar Links
What they do: Sway bars keep your vehicle stable during cornering by connecting both sides of the suspension.
Symptoms of failure:
- Clunking, especially over bumps
- Reduced handling
- Body roll during turns
4. Failing Control Arms or Bushings
What they do: Control arms allow the wheels to move up and down while keeping them aligned with the car’s frame.
Symptoms of failure:
- Clunking on turns or bumps
- Vibration in steering
- Uneven braking or pulling
Bushings dry out and crack over time, which allows excess play—and that’s what causes the knocking.
5. CV Joint Problems (Front-Wheel Drive or AWD)
What they do: Constant velocity (CV) joints allow the front wheels to receive power and still turn smoothly.
Symptoms of failure:
- Rhythmic clunking or clicking while turning
- Grease on the inside of your wheel
- Vibration or juddering under acceleration
If you drive a front-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle and hear a clunk, the outer CV joint is a prime suspect.
6. Worn Struts or Shocks
What they do: These components absorb road impact and keep your tires in contact with the ground.
Symptoms of failure:
- Clunking or thumping
- Excessive bouncing
- Nose dive during braking
A failing strut mount can especially cause a single clunk when turning or hitting bumps.
7. Broken or Weak Coil Springs
What they do: Coil springs support the weight of your car and help cushion road impacts.
Symptoms of failure:
- Uneven ride height
- Clunking or banging noise
- Sagging on one side
Springs can rust, crack, or break—and when they do, turning puts pressure on the suspension, causing a loud clunk.
🤔 FAQs About Clunking Noises When Turning
Is it safe to drive with a clunking noise?
Short answer: Not really. Some causes (like sway bar links) might not be urgent. Others (like ball joints or tie rods) can be downright dangerous if they fail at high speed.
Can I diagnose the clunk myself?
Yes, to an extent. Jack up the car safely and check for:
- Loose movement in wheels (ball joints, tie rods)
- Leaking or cracked boots (CV joints)
- Broken parts (sway bar links)
But when in doubt? Always see a trusted mechanic.
How much does it cost to fix clunking noises? (2025)
Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Component | Estimated Cost (Parts + Labor) |
|---|---|
| Ball Joints | $150–$400 |
| Tie Rods | $100–$300 |
| CV Joint/Axle | $250–$600 |
| Sway Bar Links | $80–$200 |
| Control Arm | $200–$500 |
⚖️ Pros & Cons: DIY vs Mechanic Fix
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | Saves money, rewarding for gearheads | Requires tools, time, and mechanical skill |
| Mechanic | Accurate diagnosis, warranty on repairs | Higher cost, wait time |
✅ Key Takeaways: Don’t Let the Clunk Slide
- A clunking noise when turning usually points to worn suspension or steering parts.
- Ball joints, tie rods, CV joints, and sway bar links are the top offenders.
- Diagnosing early can save money—and possibly your life.
- Don’t guess. If in doubt, get a professional inspection.
📢 Final Thoughts + What to Do Next
Still hearing that clunk? Don’t play the guessing game.
👨🔧 Next Step: Schedule a suspension inspection or click over to our complete guide to ball joint failure symptoms to dive deeper into one of the top causes.
Have a weird sound you can’t identify? Drop a comment below—or shoot us a message. We love a good mystery.