The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Clunking Noise from Front Suspension on 2020 S60

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Momentum

Hi all,

I'm experiencing a concerning clunking noise from the front end of my 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Momentum. It has about 40,000 miles on it. The noise is most noticeable when going over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, especially at lower speeds. It sounds like something is loose or hitting against something else.

I've checked for anything obvious like loose items in the trunk or under the hood, but it definitely seems to be coming from the suspension. There's no noticeable change in steering or handling, but the sound is quite loud and makes me worried. Has anyone else experienced this with their S60 or a similar Volvo model? What could be the cause?

Thanks for your insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:13 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension is a common indicator of worn or damaged components. Given your 2020 S60 has 40,000 miles, it's possible some parts are starting to show wear.

  1. Common Causes of Front Suspension Clunking:

    • Sway Bar End Links: These are a very common culprit. The bushings or ball joints in the end links can wear out, causing a clunking sound as the sway bar moves.
    • Control Arm Bushings: The rubber bushings in the control arms can degrade over time, leading to excessive movement and noise, particularly over bumps.
    • Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints can also cause clunking and can affect steering stability.
    • Strut Mounts/Bearings: The top mounts of the struts can wear out, leading to noise when the suspension compresses or the steering wheel is turned.
    • Tie Rod Ends: While more often associated with loose steering, severely worn inner or outer tie rod ends can sometimes contribute to clunking.
    • Loose Components: Less common, but sometimes a bolt on a suspension component can come loose.

  2. What You Can Do:

    • Visual Inspection (Carefully): If you're comfortable, you can visually inspect the sway bar end links, control arm bushings, and strut mounts for obvious signs of wear, cracks in rubber, or excessive play. Always use jack stands if lifting the vehicle. You can also try gently rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock, then 3 and 9 o'clock, to check for play in ball joints and tie rod ends, respectively.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediately: A clunking noise from the suspension should be addressed promptly. While it might start as an annoyance, worn suspension components can compromise handling, tire wear, and potentially safety.
    • A professional technician can perform a thorough inspection of all suspension components, including a 'shake-down' test to pinpoint the exact source of the noise. They have the specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and safely replace these parts. Ignoring these noises can lead to accelerated wear on other components and potentially more costly repairs down the line.
Menu

Help & account