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2020 Civic EX: Clunking Noise Over Bumps & Rough Ride

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:44 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Honda Civic EX

Hey everyone, I've got a 2020 Honda Civic EX with about 40,000 miles on it. Lately, I've been hearing a distinct clunking noise coming from the front suspension, especially when I go over speed bumps or potholes. It's not a constant noise, just when the suspension is really working.

Also, the ride feels a lot harsher than it used to. It seems like I feel every little imperfection in the road, and the car just doesn't feel as smooth or composed as it did when it was newer. I haven't hit any major potholes recently that I can recall, and the tires are relatively new and properly inflated.

Could this be a strut issue, or something else? What should I be looking for? Any thoughts or similar experiences with your Civics?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:44 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The clunking noise over bumps and a noticeably rougher ride in your 2020 Honda Civic EX are classic symptoms of worn or damaged suspension components. At 40,000 miles, while not extremely high, certain parts can start to show wear depending on driving conditions.

Possible Causes:

  1. Worn Struts/Shock Absorbers: The most common culprit for a rough ride and clunking. Over time, the internal components of struts can wear out, leading to reduced dampening and allowing more movement, causing noise and a harsher feel.
  2. Sway Bar End Links: These small links connect the sway bar to the suspension. Their bushings or ball joints can wear out, creating a clunking sound, especially when one side of the suspension moves independently of the other (like over a single bump).
  3. Control Arm Bushings: The rubber bushings in the control arms can degrade, allowing excessive movement and leading to clunking noises and a less stable ride.
  4. Ball Joints: Worn ball joints can also cause clunking and affect steering stability, though they often present with more noticeable steering issues.
  5. Loose Mounts: Less common, but loose strut mounts or other suspension component mounts can also lead to noise.

What to Do:

  1. Visual Inspection: If you're comfortable, visually inspect the front suspension components. Look for any obvious signs of damage, leaks from the struts (indicating they're blown), or cracked/torn rubber bushings on the control arms and sway bar end links.
  2. Bounce Test: Push down firmly on each corner of the car and release. If the car bounces more than 1-2 times before settling, your struts/shocks are likely worn.
  3. Professional Inspection: Due to the complexity and safety implications of suspension components, a professional inspection is highly recommended. A mechanic can lift the vehicle, check for play in all joints, and identify the exact source of the noise and ride quality issue.

When to See a Shop:

  • As soon as possible. While not an immediate safety hazard in all cases, worn suspension components can affect handling, braking, and tire wear. Ignoring them can lead to more significant and costly repairs, and compromise your vehicle's safety and comfort. There are no specific OBD codes for mechanical suspension wear, so a physical inspection is key.
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