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Clunking Noise from Front Suspension on 2020 Outlander PHEV GT

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Nicole W. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:32 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT

Hello everyone,

I've been hearing a noticeable clunking or knocking sound coming from the front end of my 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GT. It happens mostly when I go over speed bumps, potholes, or any uneven road surface. It's not constant, but it's definitely getting more frequent and louder.

The car has about 60,000 miles on it, and I haven't had any major suspension work done. I'm worried it might be something serious. Could it be sway bar links, bushings, or something else entirely? I'm hoping to get some ideas before I take it in.

Thanks for any insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:32 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps, is a very common complaint and usually points to worn or loose suspension components. Given your 2020 Outlander PHEV GT has 60,000 miles, it's a reasonable mileage for some components to start showing wear.

  1. Common Culprits for Clunking:

    • Sway Bar End Links: These are very common to wear out. They connect the sway bar to the suspension, and when their bushings or ball joints wear, they create a clunking sound, particularly over uneven surfaces or when turning.
    • Sway Bar Bushings: The bushings that hold the main sway bar to the frame can also wear, allowing the bar to move and clunk.
    • Control Arm Bushings: Worn bushings in the lower or upper control arms can cause clunking and affect handling.
    • Ball Joints: Worn ball joints (connecting the control arms to the steering knuckle) can also produce clunking sounds and are a safety concern.
    • Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of the struts can wear out, leading to noise and sometimes a 'popping' sound when turning the steering wheel.
    • Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a bolt on a suspension component can simply be loose.

  2. When to See a Shop:

    • Promptly: While not always an immediate safety hazard, worn suspension components can degrade handling, accelerate tire wear, and eventually lead to more serious issues or even failure. It's best to have it inspected soon.

What a Shop Will Do:

  • Visual Inspection: A technician will visually inspect all front suspension components for signs of wear, cracks, or looseness.
  • Pry Bar Test: They will use a pry bar to check for play in ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links.
  • Load Test: Sometimes, components only make noise under load, so they might lift the vehicle and then lower it onto stands to simulate load while checking.
  • Road Test: A road test can help confirm the source and conditions under which the noise occurs.

It's highly advisable to have a professional suspension inspection. They can pinpoint the exact worn component and recommend the necessary repairs to restore your vehicle's ride quality and safety.

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