Front end clunking/creaking over bumps on my 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring

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Brian F. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a really annoying clunking or creaking sound coming from the front end of my 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring. It's most noticeable when I go over speed bumps, uneven pavement, or even just turning slowly into my driveway. It sounds like it's coming from the driver's side front wheel area.

It's not a constant noise, but it's consistent when the suspension articulates. I've only had the car for about a year and a half, and it's got around 18,000 miles on it. I wouldn't expect these kinds of noises from a premium vehicle like this so soon.

Has anyone else experienced anything similar with their Lucid Air? Could it be something simple like a loose component, or something more serious with the suspension or even the brakes? Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated before I take it in for service.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's concerning to hear about clunking or creaking noises from the front end of your 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring. These types of sounds often indicate a mechanical issue within the suspension or steering components. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, it's definitely something worth investigating promptly.

Here are the common causes for such noises and what steps you should take:

  1. Suspension Bushings: Worn or deteriorated rubber bushings in control arms, sway bar links, or subframe mounts are a very common culprit for creaking and clunking. The heavy weight of EVs can sometimes accelerate wear on these components.
  2. Sway Bar Links/Bushings: The sway bar (or anti-roll bar) helps reduce body roll. If its links or bushings are worn, they can produce clunking sounds, especially over uneven surfaces or when turning.
  3. Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mount of the strut assembly can wear out, leading to clunking or popping noises as the suspension moves. The bearing within the strut mount can also seize or wear, causing creaking during steering.
  4. Ball Joints: These critical components connect the control arms to the steering knuckle. Worn ball joints can cause clunking, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  5. Brake Caliper Issues: While less common for a 'clunk,' a loose or sticking brake caliper, or worn caliper guide pins, can sometimes produce a metallic clunk or rattle, particularly at low speeds or when hitting bumps.

When to See a Shop:

It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment with a Lucid service center or a qualified independent EV specialist as soon as possible. Suspension and steering components are vital for vehicle safety and handling. Ignoring these noises can lead to accelerated wear on other parts, compromised handling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

  • Inspection: A technician will typically perform a thorough visual inspection of all front suspension components, checking for play, cracks, or signs of wear in bushings, ball joints, and links.
  • Road Test: They will likely perform a road test to confirm the noise and attempt to pinpoint its origin.
  • Diagnostic Tools: While mechanical noises like these rarely trigger OBD-II codes, a shop can check for any active suspension system fault codes if your Lucid Air is equipped with adaptive or air suspension, which could indicate an electronic issue affecting ride height or damping.

Do not attempt to diagnose or repair complex suspension issues yourself without proper tools and expertise. It's best left to professionals.