The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Clunking Noise from Front Suspension on 2020 QX60 Luxe

0

David L. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Infiniti QX60 Luxe

Hi everyone,

I'm hearing a distinct clunking noise from the front end of my 2020 Infiniti QX60 Luxe, especially when going over speed bumps or potholes at low speeds. It sounds like something is loose or hitting against something else. It's been happening for about a month now and seems to be getting a little worse.

The car has about 45,000 miles on it. The ride quality still feels okay for the most part, but the noise is really concerning. Has anyone else experienced this with their QX60? What should I be looking for?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension, particularly over bumps, is a common complaint and usually points to worn or damaged suspension components. For your 2020 Infiniti QX60 Luxe, several parts could be the culprit. Addressing this promptly is important for both ride comfort and safety.

Common Causes:

  1. Worn Sway Bar Links: These are a very common source of clunking noises. The bushings or ball joints on the sway bar links can wear out, creating play and noise when the suspension articulates.
  2. Worn Control Arm Bushings: The rubber bushings in the control arms can degrade over time, allowing metal-on-metal contact or excessive movement, leading to clunking.
  3. Bad Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of your struts can wear out, causing noise when the suspension moves. The strut bearings can also seize, leading to noise when turning.
  4. Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a loose bolt on a suspension component can cause a similar noise.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Visual Inspection (Safe Conditions): If you're comfortable and have a safe way to lift the front of your vehicle (e.g., jack stands), you can visually inspect the sway bar links, control arm bushings, and strut mounts for obvious signs of wear, cracks, or looseness.
  2. "Bounce Test": While not definitive, pushing down firmly on each corner of the vehicle and observing how it rebounds can sometimes give a hint about strut health. Excessive bouncing indicates worn struts.
  3. Listen Carefully: Try to pinpoint the exact location of the noise. Is it left, right, or center? This can help narrow down the problem area.

When to See a Shop:

It's highly recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect your suspension. They have the tools and expertise to safely lift the vehicle, check for play in all components, and accurately diagnose the source of the clunking. While not an immediate safety hazard in all cases, worn suspension parts can affect handling, tire wear, and braking performance over time. Addressing it sooner can prevent further damage to other components. There are typically no OBD codes associated with mechanical suspension noises.

Menu

Help & account