Clank metal noise when accelerating from a stop

AZDANNO04

MEMBER
2008 CHEVROLET COBALT
2.2L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
127,525 MILES

When turning or taking off, I hear a clank coming from the passenger side. I checked the CV boots both are fine not torn. I saw the bushings on the sway bar end links, they were ripped but not gone. I replaced them still makes noise. Possibly can it come from lower ball joint?

5 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

How loud is this clunk? Is it faint or obvious?

If this is an obvious noise, then it can be ball joints or other suspension components, so we need to lift the wheel off the ground and put it on a jack stand and check the front end for looseness. We need to grab the tire at 3 and 9 o'clock and move in and out opposite from each other and there should be no movement.

Then do the same at 12 and 6 and again, there should be no movement. If you get any wiggle, then we have an issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jack-up-and-lift-your-car-safely

Also, do you have any tire wear? I am attaching a chart below that will help with this.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-car-tires-work

Let's start with this info and go from there.

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Saturday, May 21st, 2022 AT 1:11 PM

AZDANNO04

MEMBER
283 POSTS

I looked up similar Cobalt that have the issue and one stated it's a l-shaft between the steering column and steering gear.

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Saturday, May 21st, 2022 AT 4:58 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

That is possible but does the noise happen when sitting still and turning?

Is it possible to get a recording of the noise?

I am wondering if we have an issue with the spring or suspension so hopefully, we can get a recording of it and go from there.

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Sunday, May 22nd, 2022 AT 5:28 AM

AZDANNO04

MEMBER
283 POSTS

Only when going over a speed bump I can hear it on the right side and when turning and accelerating at the same time. I can get a recording of the sound today.

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Sunday, May 22nd, 2022 AT 12:35 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Okay. Accelerating could be a motor mount but not likely the speed bumps.

So, I think at this point getting the video is really going to help. Hearing the pitch and repetitive nature will most likely help solve this.

Let us know when you are able to get the recording and we can go from there.

Thanks