Clunking noise mainly going over bumps?

Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 FORD MUSTANG
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 149,000 MILES
I hear it mainly on bumps, checked everything. When I turn wheel 3 and 9 I feel some play and if I put my hand on the tie rod I feel where that play is coming from but when I move the tie rod it's not much play. How is it possible confirm that compared to say a strut mount?
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Monday, September 4th, 2023 AT 4:29 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

If you have play in a tie-rod, it should be replaced.

On the other hand, if you are only hearing the noise when you go over bumps, it is more than likely suspension related.

I attached a pic below. Check the items highlighted for damage or excessive wear. The stabilizer link can fail or even break causing a clunk when hitting bumps. If everything is tight as far as the suspension, suspect the strut plate at the top of the assembly.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Monday, September 4th, 2023 AT 10:54 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 1,752 POSTS
I changed the outer tie rods and stabilizer links. I checked stabilizer bar bushings, and they were in good shape. Still have a clunk. When car is off and I wiggle the steering I hear the clicking.
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 8:26 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

Have you checked both the upper and lower intermediate steering shafts? There are universal joints that may be worn and have play.

See pic below. Check the joints for play. When you do check, have a helper turn the steering wheel back and forth while you watch for play at the joints.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 6:07 PM
Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 1,752 POSTS
I see, but will that cause a noise on pumps? I know it does not have any play while driving but the noise is definitely coming from steering while moving the wheel.
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 6:54 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

It could come from bumps simply because there is a jolt in the steering. When you indicated with the vehicle off, you hear it when you wiggle the steering, that is what pointed me in this direction. It's a theory at this point, but it is worth checking.

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 10:12 PM

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