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2018 Mirage G4 Front End Clunking Noise Over Bumps

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David L. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 ES

Hello everyone, I own a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 ES and I've started hearing a distinct clunking noise coming from the front end, particularly when driving over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven pavement. It's become quite noticeable and makes me concerned about the car's suspension.

The noise seems to be more prominent on the driver's side, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly. It's not a constant rattle, but a single 'clunk' or 'thud' when the suspension compresses or extends quickly. I've checked for anything obvious like loose items in the trunk or under the hood, but found nothing.

Could this be a common issue for the Mirage G4? What are the usual culprits for this kind of noise in the front suspension, and how urgent is it to get it checked out? I want to make sure my car is safe to drive.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension over bumps is a very common complaint across many vehicle makes and models, and your 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 ES is no exception. It usually indicates wear in one or more suspension components.

Possible Causes:

  1. Worn Sway Bar Links: These are a very common source of clunking noises. The bushings or ball joints on the sway bar end links can wear out, causing play and noise.
  2. Worn Stabilizer Bar Bushings: The bushings that hold the main sway bar to the frame can also wear, allowing the bar to move and clunk.
  3. Bad Strut Mounts: The strut mounts (also called bearing plates) at the top of the strut assembly can wear out, leading to noise and sometimes poor steering response.
  4. Loose or Worn Ball Joints: Lower ball joints connect the control arm to the steering knuckle. If they are worn, they can cause clunking.
  5. Worn Control Arm Bushings: The bushings where the control arm attaches to the vehicle's subframe can deteriorate, allowing excessive movement and noise.
  6. Loose Wheel Nuts: While less likely to be a clunk, it's always worth checking for safety.

When to See a Shop: It's important to get this checked out relatively soon. While a clunking noise might just be an annoyance, it can indicate worn parts that affect steering, handling, and ultimately, safety. Worn suspension components can also accelerate wear on other parts, like tires.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Professional Inspection: Take your Mirage G4 to a trusted mechanic or Mitsubishi dealership for a thorough suspension inspection. They will lift the vehicle and check all the components mentioned above.
  2. Road Test: A technician will perform a road test to confirm the noise and try to isolate its source.
  3. Component Check: They will specifically look for:
    • Play in the sway bar links by shaking them.
    • Cracked or deteriorated control arm and sway bar bushings.
    • Movement in the ball joints.
    • Damage or wear to the strut mounts or strut itself.
  4. Repair/Replacement: Once the faulty component(s) are identified, they will recommend replacement. Often, if one side's component is worn (e.g., a sway bar link), it's advisable to replace both sides simultaneously for balanced performance and longevity.

Addressing this will restore your vehicle's ride quality and ensure its safe operation.

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