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Front Suspension Clunking Noise on 2020 S60

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

Vehicle: 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription

Hi all,

I've got a 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription, and recently I've started hearing a noticeable clunking or knocking sound from the front suspension, especially when going over speed bumps or uneven pavement at low speeds. It's more pronounced on the driver's side, but I can hear it from both sides sometimes.

The car only has about 40,000 miles on it, and I wouldn't expect suspension issues this early. It doesn't seem to affect handling much, but the noise is definitely concerning. Has anyone else experienced this with their S60 or a similar Volvo model?

What could be causing this, and is it something I should get looked at right away?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A clunking noise from the front suspension of your 2020 Volvo S60 is a common symptom of several potential issues, even at 40,000 miles. Here's what could be happening:

  1. Common Causes of Suspension Clunking:

    • Sway Bar Links (End Links): These are a very common culprit. The bushings or ball joints in the sway bar links can wear out, leading to play and a clunking sound, especially over bumps or when turning.
    • Control Arm Bushings: The rubber bushings in the control arms can degrade or crack over time, allowing metal-on-metal contact or excessive movement.
    • Ball Joints: Worn lower or upper ball joints can cause clunking as they lose their tight fit.
    • 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 or nut on a suspension component can loosen, causing play and noise.
    • Tie Rod Ends: Inner or outer tie rod ends can also wear, contributing to front-end noise and potentially affecting alignment.

  2. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediate Inspection Recommended: Any persistent suspension noise should be inspected promptly. While it might not immediately compromise safety, worn suspension components can lead to accelerated wear on other parts, affect handling, and eventually become a safety hazard.
    • Worsening Noise: If the clunking gets louder, more frequent, or is accompanied by changes in steering feel (e.g., looseness, wandering), it's crucial to get it checked immediately.
    • Uneven Tire Wear: Worn suspension components often lead to uneven tire wear, which can be an early indicator of a problem.
    • Vibration: If you start feeling vibrations through the steering wheel or floorboards, this could also point to suspension issues.

A professional technician will typically put the car on a lift and inspect all suspension components for play, cracks in bushings, and overall condition. They can often pinpoint the exact source of the clunking by manipulating the wheels and suspension parts.

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