Clunking noise from front suspension on my G70 over bumps

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Genesis G70 3.3T

Hi Genesis owners,

I've got a 2020 Genesis G70 3.3T, and lately, I've noticed a distinct clunking noise coming from the front end, especially when going over speed bumps or uneven pavement. It's not a constant noise, but it's very noticeable when the suspension articulates.

The car has about 45,000 miles on it. I haven't hit any major potholes recently that I can recall. The steering feels fine, and there's no pulling.

Could this be a control arm, sway bar link, or something else? Any advice on what to check first?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise over bumps from the front suspension of your 2020 Genesis G70 is a common indicator of worn or loose suspension components. Here's what's likely happening and what to check:

Common Causes:

  1. Sway Bar Links: These are a very frequent culprit. The bushings or ball joints in the sway bar end links can wear out, causing metal-on-metal contact and a clunking sound, especially when one side of the suspension moves independently over bumps.
  2. Control Arm Bushings/Ball Joints: The control arms connect the wheel hub to the chassis. Their bushings can crack or wear, and the ball joints can loosen, leading to play and noise. This can also affect alignment and tire wear over time.
  3. Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of the struts can wear out, causing a clunk or thud, particularly when turning or going over bumps. The strut itself could also be failing, though a clunk is more often a mount issue.
  4. Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a bolt on a suspension component can simply come loose, allowing for movement and noise.

What to do:

  • Visual Inspection: A technician will lift the vehicle and visually inspect all front suspension components for signs of wear, cracks, or looseness. They'll often use a pry bar to check for play in ball joints and bushings.
  • Shake Test: They may perform a 'shake test' on the wheels to feel for play in bearings or ball joints.
  • Road Test: A road test can help pinpoint the exact conditions under which the noise occurs.

When to see a shop: Any unusual noise from the suspension should be investigated promptly. While a clunk might seem minor, worn suspension components can compromise handling, steering stability, and braking performance, increasing the risk of an accident. It's best to have a professional diagnose and repair the issue to ensure your G70 remains safe and performs optimally.