# 2017 Toyota Mirai CV Joint Clicking Noise When Turning > ClearTheCode — Is your 2017 Toyota Mirai making a CV joint clicking noise when turning? Discover common causes and how to diagnose this issue to restore smooth, quiet driving. Source: https://clearthecode.com/articles/cv-joint-clicking-turning-toyota-mirai-2017 Author: ClearTheCode # CV joint clicking noise when turning 2017 Toyota Mirai If you own a 2017 Toyota Mirai and have started to hear a distinct clicking or popping sound coming from the wheels, especially when making turns, you're likely experiencing symptoms of a worn or damaged Constant Velocity (CV) joint. This issue is a common wear item on many front-wheel-drive vehicles, including the Mirai, and requires attention to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation. Addressing a CV joint clicking noise when turning on your 2017 Toyota Mirai promptly can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the line. ## What drivers notice on this 2017 Toyota Mirai Drivers of the 2017 Toyota Mirai typically first notice the tell-tale clicking sound during low-speed maneuvers, such as pulling into a parking spot, navigating a roundabout, or making a U-turn. The noise is often rhythmic and directly correlated with wheel speed, becoming more pronounced as the steering wheel is turned sharply. While the Mirai's fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) powertrain is known for its quiet operation, a failing CV joint will introduce an unmistakable mechanical noise that stands out against the otherwise silent ride. ## At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow - **Difficulty Rating:** 6/10 — Moderate - **Common Symptoms:** Clicking or popping noise when turning: This is the most common and definitive symptom. The sound typically originates f; Clicking or popping noise during acceleration: While less common than turning, a severely worn CV joint might also click; Grease leaks around the wheel: A torn CV boot, which protects the joint, will often leak grease. You might notice dark, ; Vibration during driving: In advanced stages of wear, a CV joint can cause vibrations that are felt through the steering - **Estimated Repair Cost:** $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor) - **OEM Tooling Required:** Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools **Diagnostic workflow:** 1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle. 2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool. 3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first). 4. Run verification tests before replacing parts. 5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive. ## Symptoms and warning signs Recognizing the early signs of a failing CV joint on your 2017 Toyota Mirai is crucial for timely repair. Pay close attention to these symptoms: - **Clicking or popping noise when turning:** This is the most common and definitive symptom. The sound typically originates from the affected wheel and is loudest when the steering wheel is at full lock or near full lock. - **Clicking or popping noise during acceleration:** While less common than turning, a severely worn CV joint might also click when accelerating from a stop, especially if the vehicle is also turning. - **Grease leaks around the wheel:** A torn CV boot, which protects the joint, will often leak grease. You might notice dark, oily splatters on the inside of your wheel rim or along the underside of the vehicle near the axle. - **Vibration during driving:** In advanced stages of wear, a CV joint can cause vibrations that are felt through the steering wheel or floorboards, particularly at highway speeds. This indicates significant internal damage. - **Clunking noise when shifting (less common for Mirai):** While more typical in traditional ICE vehicles with automatic transmissions, a very worn CV joint could contribute to a clunking sensation during sudden load changes, though this is less applicable to the Mirai's single-speed transmission. ## How to verify and confirm the issue Confirming a CV joint issue on your 2017 Toyota Mirai involves both auditory checks and visual inspection: - **Auditory Test:** Find a safe, open area like an empty parking lot. Drive your Mirai slowly in tight circles, both clockwise and counter-clockwise. Listen carefully for the clicking or popping sound. If the noise is louder when turning left, the right CV joint is likely the culprit, and vice versa. - **Visual Inspection of CV Boots:** Park your Mirai on a level surface and turn the steering wheel fully to one side. Look behind the wheel at the axle shaft that connects to the wheel hub. You'll see rubber boots covering the inner and outer CV joints. Inspect both boots for tears, cracks, or signs of grease leakage. Repeat for the other side. A torn boot is a strong indicator that the joint has been exposed to contaminants and is likely failing. - **Physical Play Check (Professional Recommended):** With the vehicle safely lifted on a hoist, a technician can physically check for excessive play in the CV joints by attempting to move the axle shaft by hand. Any noticeable looseness indicates significant wear. - **No OBD Codes:** It's important to note that a failing CV joint typically does not trigger any diagnostic trouble codes (OBD-II codes) because it's a mechanical wear issue, not an electronic or sensor-related problem. ## Common causes (most likely first) Several factors can contribute to a CV joint clicking noise when turning on your 2017 Toyota Mirai: - **Torn or damaged CV boot:** This is by far the most common cause. The rubber boot protects the CV joint from dirt, water, and debris while keeping its lubricating grease inside. Once torn, the grease escapes, and contaminants enter, rapidly accelerating wear. - **Lack of lubrication:** Even without a visible tear, the grease inside the boot can degrade or migrate over time, leading to insufficient lubrication and increased friction within the joint. - **Wear and tear:** Like any moving part, CV joints are subject to wear over time and mileage. Aggressive driving habits, frequent sharp turns, or driving on rough roads can accelerate this process. - **Impact damage:** Hitting a large pothole, curb, or other road debris can directly damage the CV joint or tear the boot. - **Improper installation:** If the CV axle assembly has been replaced recently, incorrect installation or using a low-quality aftermarket part can lead to premature failure. ### Related guides on this vehicle - [Strut Mount Bearing Noise When Turning Steering Wheel 2000 Toyota Tacoma](/articles/strut-mount-bearing-noise-turning-4756-toyota-tacoma-2000) - [Brakes Making Grinding Noise 2016 Toyota Mirai](/articles/brakes-grinding-noise-when-stopping-5440-toyota-mirai-2016) - [2016 Toyota 4Runner Clicking Noise When Trying to Start](/articles/car-makes-clicking-noise-start-toyota-4runner-2016) ## Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes Diagnosing and fixing a CV joint issue on your 2017 Toyota Mirai typically involves these steps: - **Pinpoint the noisy joint:** Use the auditory test mentioned above to identify which side (left or right) and potentially which joint (inner or outer) is making the noise. - **Visual inspection under the vehicle:** Safely lift the Mirai and perform a thorough visual inspection of both inner and outer CV boots on both axle shafts. Look for tears, cracks, or grease splatter. This is critical for confirming the diagnosis. - **Check for axle shaft play:** With the vehicle supported, gently try to move the axle shaft up and down, and in and out. Excessive play indicates a worn joint. - **Determine repair scope:** If only the boot is torn and caught early, sometimes a boot replacement and regreasing can suffice. However, if clicking is present, the joint is already damaged and typically requires full axle replacement. - **CV Axle Replacement:** For a clicking CV joint, the most reliable fix is to replace the entire CV axle assembly. This involves removing the wheel, brake caliper, rotor, and disconnecting the axle from the transmission and wheel hub. - **Reassembly and Test Drive:** Install the new axle, reassemble components, and perform a test drive to ensure the noise is gone and the vehicle operates smoothly. For detailed instructions, consult specific All repair guides for axle replacement. ## Repair options and cost factors When dealing with a CV joint clicking noise on your 2017 Toyota Mirai, you generally have a few repair options: - **CV Boot Replacement (Early Stage):** If a torn boot is discovered before the joint starts clicking, replacing just the boot and repacking the joint with fresh grease is an option. This is the least expensive repair but is only effective if the joint itself is not yet contaminated or worn. - **CV Axle Assembly Replacement:** This is the most common and recommended solution once a CV joint is clicking. It involves replacing the entire axle shaft, which includes both the inner and outer CV joints and their boots. This ensures a complete and lasting repair. - **Cost Factors:** The overall cost will depend on whether you opt for an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part or a high-quality aftermarket axle. Labor costs can vary based on your location and the shop's rates. Given the Mirai's front-wheel-drive configuration, axle replacement is a relatively standard procedure for experienced technicians. ## When to see a professional While some DIY enthusiasts might tackle CV axle replacement, there are several reasons why seeing a professional for your 2017 Toyota Mirai's clicking CV joint is advisable: - **Specialized Tools:** Replacing a CV axle requires specific tools, including a torque wrench, axle nut socket, and potentially a ball joint separator or press. - **Safety Concerns:** Working under a vehicle without proper lifting equipment and safety stands can be dangerous. Incorrect reassembly of suspension or brake components can lead to critical safety issues. - **Diagnostic Accuracy:** A professional technician can accurately diagnose the exact source of the noise and confirm whether it is indeed the CV joint or another component like a wheel bearing. - **Experience with Mirai:** While CV joints are universal, a technician familiar with the Mirai's specific suspension and drivetrain components can ensure a smooth and correct repair. - **Time and Expertise:** If you lack the time, experience, or confidence to perform the repair, a professional will complete the job efficiently and correctly. ## Frequently asked questions ### Can a clicking CV joint be ignored? Ignoring a clicking CV joint is not recommended. While it might seem like a minor annoyance initially, a failing CV joint will only worsen over time. Eventually, it can seize completely or even separate, leading to a sudden loss of power to the wheel and potentially causing you to lose control of your 2017 Toyota Mirai, especially at speed. It's a safety hazard that should be addressed promptly. ### How long does a CV joint last after it starts clicking? There's no definitive answer to how long a clicking CV joint will last once the noise begins, as it depends on the severity of the wear, driving conditions, and how often the joint is stressed. Some might last for thousands of miles with mild clicking, while others could fail within a few hundred. It's a gamble that can lead to unexpected breakdowns and more expensive repairs if other components are damaged. For more information on vehicle components, you can [Browse vehicles](/vehicles) on our site. ### Is a CV joint replacement difficult on a 2017 Toyota Mirai? CV joint replacement on a 2017 Toyota Mirai is considered a moderately difficult repair. It involves disconnecting several suspension and brake components, dealing with large axle nuts, and potentially wrestling the old axle out and the new one in. While not impossible for an experienced DIY mechanic with the right tools, it can be challenging and time-consuming for someone unfamiliar with the process, making professional service a strong consideration. ## Sources and further reading For more detailed technical specifications and repair procedures specific to your 2017 Toyota Mirai, consult the official Toyota service manuals or reputable automotive repair databases. This information is for general guidance and not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work. ## Related pages - All repair guides - [Browse vehicles](/vehicles) ## Explore related guides on ClearTheCode - [Browse OBD-II codes](/codes) - All repair guides