Front Suspension Clunking Noise on My 2023 Lucid Air Touring

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 4:15 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Lucid Air Touring

Hey everyone,

I've been experiencing a persistent clunking noise from the front suspension of my 2023 Lucid Air Touring. It's most noticeable when going over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, or making low-speed turns. It sounds like something is loose, and it's starting to get on my nerves.

The car only has about 15,000 miles on it, and I've tried to visually inspect things myself, but I don't see anything obviously wrong. I'm worried it could be a more serious issue.

Has anyone else with a Lucid Air, especially a 2022 or 2023 model, encountered a similar problem? What was the cause, and how was it resolved? Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated before I schedule a service appointment.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Hello Sarah L., a clunking noise from the front suspension of a relatively new vehicle like your 2023 Lucid Air Touring can indeed be concerning. While Lucid vehicles are known for their build quality, even new cars can sometimes develop minor issues or have components that wear prematurely. This type of noise typically indicates a mechanical issue within the suspension or steering system.

Here are some common causes and diagnostic steps:

  1. Worn or Loose Sway Bar Links/Bushings: These are a very common source of clunking noises, especially over bumps. The links connect the sway bar to the control arms, and if the bushings or ball joints on the links wear out, they can create play and noise.
  2. Control Arm Bushings: The large bushings that connect the control arms to the vehicle's frame can wear out or become loose, leading to clunking, especially during turning or when the suspension articulates.
  3. Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of the struts can wear, causing a clunk or popping sound as the strut moves. The strut bearing, which allows the strut to rotate with the steering, can also fail.
  4. Loose Caliper Bolts or Brake Components: While less common for a general clunk, sometimes loose brake caliper bolts or other components within the brake assembly can mimic a suspension noise, particularly when hitting bumps or during light braking.
  5. Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints in the suspension can also cause clunking as they develop excessive play.

Diagnostic Steps (for a qualified technician):

  1. Visual Inspection: A thorough visual check for obvious signs of wear, cracks in bushings, or loose components.
  2. Suspension Component Play Check: Lifting the vehicle and using pry bars to check for excessive play in ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links.
  3. Torque Check: Ensuring all suspension and steering component bolts are torqued to factory specifications.
  4. Road Test: Replicating the conditions under which the noise occurs to help pinpoint its origin.

When to See a Professional Shop:

Given that your vehicle is under warranty and this is a suspension issue, it's highly recommended to schedule service with a Lucid authorized service center as soon as possible. Suspension problems can affect vehicle handling, stability, and braking performance, posing a safety risk if left unaddressed. While suspension issues typically do not trigger OBD-II diagnostic codes unless they are related to active suspension sensors or ABS wheel speed sensors, a professional diagnosis is crucial.

Do not delay seeking professional inspection, especially if you notice any changes in steering feel or vehicle stability.