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Front Suspension Clunk on 2019 QX60 - What could it be?

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Infiniti QX60 AWD Essential

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a persistent clunking noise coming from the front end of my 2019 Infiniti QX60 AWD Essential. It's most noticeable when I go over speed bumps, potholes, or any uneven road surfaces. It sounds like a loose metal-on-metal or heavy thud type of sound, and it's starting to get on my nerves.

My QX60 has about 65,000 miles on it. I haven't had any major suspension work done recently, just routine maintenance. The steering feels okay, no pulling or excessive play, but the noise is definitely concerning. I'm worried it might be something serious.

Has anyone else experienced this with their QX60, especially around the 2019 model year? What should I be looking for? Any advice on diagnosing this would be greatly appreciated before I take it to a shop.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:06 AM

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Hello Sarah,

A clunking noise from the front suspension of your 2019 Infiniti QX60 is a common complaint and usually indicates wear in one or more suspension components. While not always immediately dangerous, it's best to address it promptly to prevent further damage or compromised handling.

Here are the most common causes and diagnostic steps:

  1. Worn Sway Bar End Links: These are a very common culprit. The bushings or ball joints within the end links can wear out, causing a clunking sound, especially over uneven surfaces or when turning. They connect the sway bar to the control arms or struts.
  2. Control Arm Bushings: The rubber bushings in the upper or lower control arms can degrade over time, leading to excessive movement and noise. This often presents as a deeper thud or clunk.
  3. Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of the front struts can wear out, causing a clunk or popping sound, particularly when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps. The strut itself could also be worn, though a clunk is more often a mount issue.
  4. Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints can also cause clunking. These are critical for steering and suspension articulation.
  5. Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a loose bolt on a suspension component or even a loose brake caliper can mimic a suspension clunk.

When to See a Shop:

  • Persistent Noise: If the clunking is consistent and doesn't go away.
  • Changes in Handling: If you notice any changes in steering response, vehicle stability, or uneven tire wear.
  • Visual Inspection: If you're uncomfortable performing a visual inspection yourself, or if you can't identify the source of the noise.
  • Safety Concern: Any time you suspect a critical suspension component is failing, it's a safety issue that warrants professional attention.

DIY Inspection Tips (if comfortable):

  • With the vehicle safely on jack stands, try to shake each wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions (up and down) and 3 and 9 o'clock positions (side to side) to check for play in ball joints or wheel bearings.
  • Visually inspect all rubber bushings on control arms, sway bar links, and strut mounts for cracks, tears, or excessive wear.
  • While unlikely to trigger an OBD code directly for a mechanical clunk, if any related ABS or stability control warning lights are on, then scanning for C-series (chassis) codes would be relevant.
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