The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Rough Ride & Clunking Over Bumps - 2021 GLE350

0

Dan C. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:14 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350

Hi all,

I've got a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 (W167) with about 25,000 miles, and lately, the ride has become noticeably rougher. It feels like I'm feeling every little imperfection in the road, and there's a distinct clunking or thudding noise coming from the front suspension, especially when I go over speed bumps or uneven pavement.

It's really taking away from the luxury feel of the car. I don't see any leaks, and the tires look fine. Could this be related to worn bushings or something else in the suspension already? I wouldn't expect this on a relatively new Mercedes. Any ideas on what to check or what might be failing?

Thanks for your help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:14 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The rough ride and clunking noise over bumps in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, even at 25,000 miles, points towards potential wear in suspension components. While it might seem early, certain driving conditions or manufacturing defects can accelerate wear.

Common Causes & Diagnostics:

  1. Worn Sway Bar Links/Bushings: These are very common culprits for clunking noises over bumps. The sway bar links connect the sway bar to the control arms, and their bushings can wear out, creating play and noise. The sway bar bushings themselves can also wear, allowing the bar to move and clunk.
  2. Worn Control Arm Bushings: The control arms connect the wheel hub to the vehicle's frame. They contain rubber bushings that absorb shock and allow movement. If these bushings crack or degrade, they can cause a harsh ride, clunking, and even affect alignment. You might also notice excessive tire wear.
  3. Damaged Struts/Shocks: Even without visible leaks, a strut or shock absorber can lose its damping ability internally. This leads to a bouncier, harsher ride and can sometimes produce a thudding noise as the suspension bottoms out or extends too quickly. A visual inspection might not reveal the issue, but a bounce test or professional evaluation can confirm.
  4. Loose Suspension Components: Bolts holding various suspension parts (e.g., subframe, strut mounts, control arms) can sometimes loosen over time, creating play and noise. A thorough inspection by a technician can identify these.
  5. Damaged Spring (Coil or Air): While less common for a clunking noise, a broken coil spring or a failing air spring (if equipped) can certainly lead to a harsh ride and unusual noises. However, a broken coil spring is usually visually apparent.

When to See a Shop:

It's important to have your GLE350 inspected by a qualified mechanic, preferably one familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles, as soon as possible. Suspension issues can not only degrade ride comfort but also compromise handling, braking, and tire longevity. There are typically no OBD-II codes associated with these mechanical suspension noises, so a hands-on inspection, including lifting the vehicle and checking for play in components, is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and repair. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage to other suspension or steering components.

Menu

Help & account