Pop sound on driver side

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Are you sure the coil on the strut assembly isn't broken? How far can you move it upward? Do you see movement on any of the suspension or steering components?

Up and down play is usually the result of a wheel bearing or ball joint, but you said they are good. Do me a favor. Reinstall the wheel and check the ball joints according to these directions and let me know the results. The two attached pictures correlate with these directions. Also, make sure the axle nut is tight and the play isn't in the strut plate at the top of the strut.

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Ball Joint, Checking

Axial Play, Checking

Picture 1

- Forcefully pull control arm down in direction of - arrow - and press up again.

Radial Clearance, Checking

Picture 2

- Forcefully push lower part of wheel inward and outward in direction of - arrow -.

There should not be any noticeable or visible "play" in either of the two checks.

Observe lower ball joint while performing checks.

Make allowance for any wheel bearing play or "play" in strut mounting at top.

Check rubber boot for damage, replace lower ball joint, if necessary.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Honestly, it's difficult for me to be sure from here. I would recommend checking the ball joints the way they are to be tested. As far as the wheel bearing, this vehicle doesn't have a traditional hub bearing. The bearing is pressed in. You may not be feeling the play. However, if you heard a pop sound, to me it sounds ball joint related.

You know, I was thinking golf because I just had to press the bearing out then in. I can't even remember the year. Anyway, if there are no ball joint issues, bushings, bearing, steering components, the strut is the only thing left.