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2022 Eclipse Cross SE - Clunking Noise from Front Suspension Over Bumps

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:08 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE

Hey folks, I've got a 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE with about 30,000 miles on it. For the past few weeks, I've been hearing a noticeable clunking or knocking noise coming from the front suspension, especially when going over speed bumps or uneven pavement.

It's more pronounced on the driver's side, but I can hear it from both sides sometimes. It doesn't seem to affect the steering much, but it's definitely annoying and makes me worry something is loose or about to break.

Any ideas what might be causing this? Could it be sway bar links, bushings, or something else entirely? Thanks for any help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:08 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension over bumps is a very common complaint and almost always points to worn or loose components. Given your vehicle's mileage, it's a bit early for major component failure, but it's not unheard of, especially with rough roads.

Here are the most probable causes for the noise:

  1. Worn or Loose Sway Bar End Links:

    • Cause: These links connect the sway bar to the control arms. Their ball joints or bushings can wear out, creating play that manifests as a clunking sound when the suspension articulates (like over bumps). This is one of the most frequent causes of front-end clunking.
    • Action: Inspect the sway bar end links for play or damage. Replacing them is a relatively straightforward repair.

  2. Worn Sway Bar Bushings:

    • Cause: The sway bar itself is held to the frame by bushings. If these rubber bushings wear out, the sway bar can move and clunk against its mounts.
    • Action: Check the sway bar bushings for cracks, tears, or excessive play. Replacing them can often eliminate the noise.

  3. Worn Control Arm Bushings or Ball Joints:

    • Cause: The lower (and sometimes upper) control arms have rubber bushings where they attach to the frame, and ball joints where they connect to the steering knuckle. Wear in these components creates play, leading to clunking, especially when weight shifts or the suspension moves.
    • Action: A thorough inspection is required to check for play in the ball joints and cracks/deterioration in the control arm bushings.

  4. Loose Strut Mounts or Worn Struts:

    • Cause: The top strut mounts can wear out, or the nuts securing the strut can become loose, causing a knocking sound. While less common, a completely failed strut can also cause noise.
    • Action: Check the strut tower nuts for tightness and inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear or collapse.

When to See a Shop: It's best to have a professional technician inspect your front suspension. They can safely lift the vehicle, use pry bars to check for play in various components, and pinpoint the exact source of the clunking. Addressing these issues promptly is important not only for comfort but also for maintaining safe handling and preventing premature wear on other suspension and steering components.

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