Thud thud/rattle/clunking noise comes from the driver's front side

Tiny
SHARAD CHOUDHARY
  • MEMBER
  • 2016 NISSAN PATHFINDER
  • 3.5L
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 45,000 MILES
The noise only comes for the first 6-8 miles and them disappears almost completely. I have got the struts, Stabilizer links and bushing, caliper bushings and tires changed. Absolutely clueless what that could be. The local mechanics seem more interested to make money.
Friday, July 31st, 2020 AT 3:42 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

It could have something to do with the 4wd actuator. By any chance, could you record it and upload it for me to hear?

Also, this vehicle is still under power-train warranty. Have you let a dealer hear it? It has a 60,000 mile or 5 years.

Let me know.
Joe
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Friday, July 31st, 2020 AT 10:34 PM
Tiny
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Thanks Joe, attached is the video.
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Saturday, August 1st, 2020 AT 7:15 AM
Tiny
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Do you think this could be the probable cause?
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Saturday, August 1st, 2020 AT 7:17 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

I did hear it. It sounds like something is loose. Keep in mind, I'm not there to hear it, but it sounds like a rattle. Your second video, is it the in and out movement you see in the axle you are concerned about? If that is the case, don't worry. They will move in and out a bit.

Considering all you have done on the front end, check to make sure there isn't a broken exhaust hanger or heat shield. I also have another question. Is this noise only evident when the vehicle is moving?

Also, when you hear the noise, does it stop or change when the brakes are applied?

Joe
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Saturday, August 1st, 2020 AT 10:34 PM
Tiny
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Many thanks for your prompt response Joe. I understand it is difficult to ascertain the noise remotely. The strange part is the noise comes only for the first 5-6 miles and then disappears to a great extent. It comes only over uneven roads/bumps. To me it seems that overnight some lubricant accumulates at a point and when the car moves, it covers the joint again and the noise subsides.
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Sunday, August 2nd, 2020 AT 5:46 AM
Tiny
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Missed to mention. The noise is there with and without pressing the brakes. I recently got the caliper bushings changed. I am not technically qualified but basis google knowledge I have gained, do you think it could be control arm bushings?
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Sunday, August 2nd, 2020 AT 7:25 AM
Tiny
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  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

I would think a control arm bushing would not go away. That is what is confusing me. It wouldn't hurt to check suspension parts. If you look at the attached pic, I highlighted things to check for play and to confirm they are tight. I realize you had new parts installed, but perhaps something is loose.

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, August 2nd, 2020 AT 8:33 PM
Tiny
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Thanks again Joe! Whilst the mechanics that I take the car to have said nothing is loose, however continues to get baffled as to why the noise comes only the in the first few miles.
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Monday, August 3rd, 2020 AT 9:48 AM
Tiny
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You are very welcome. And to be honest, it is really odd that it only lasts the first few miles. That is very odd.

Let me know what you find. I would love to know.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, August 3rd, 2020 AT 10:25 PM

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