What causes a clunking noise when going over bumps?
Matthew Barrera
Updated on April 04, 2026
If you hear those annoying clunking noises when going over bumps, it means that something is wrong with the suspension system. These are the areas to check the next time you hear these sounds on the road. Worn or Damaged Struts. When struts are damaged, the strut shocks fail to perform as they should.
Why does my front end rattle over bumps?
Do you hear a front end rattle when going over bumps? If you hear a rattling sound during any of these, it could mean you have a suspension problem which could include: a bad control arm bushing, bad ball joint, bad tie rod, bad strut mount, bad sway bar link, or bad sway bar bushings.
Is it normal for a car to make a noise over bumps?
It is not normal for a car to rattle and produce clunking noises when moving. That mainly occurs in vehicles with suspension issues when they go over bumps, rough roads, potholes, and rocks. A problem like that can be frustrating and put you at risk.
Does a bad wheel bearing make a clunking noise?
When a wheel hub bearing wears out, it puts extra stress on the CV-joint. That can cause the knocking/clunking noise when you turn the vehicle.
How do you tell if the struts on your car are bad?
The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And Struts
- Instability at highway speeds.
- Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns.
- The front end dives more than expected during hard braking.
- Rear-end squat during acceleration.
- Tires bouncing excessively.
- Unusual tire wear.
- Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts.
Can a bad alignment cause clunking?
The Noises Bad alignment noise will warn you about displaced wheels. So, you should pay attention when your vehicle is making creaking, knocking, or squeaking sound.
How to diagnose a clunking noise when driving over bumps?
When it comes to diagnosing a clunking noise when driving over bumps, a road test is required to determine the sound. Before you take the vehicle on a road test, you need to walk around the vehicle to ensure that there is nothing falling off the vehicle. Look underneath to see if any parts to the vehicle has broken off.
Why does my car make a clunking sound when I drive?
If you drive over bumps and hear a clunking sound, there is a good possibility that something important is wrong with your car. Frequently, the suspension system is at fault when you hear a clunk sound. Clunking noises that happen when you drive your car over bumps could be from the following: Worn or damaged struts.
What should I do if I hear a clunk in my car?
Losing that much air could be significant if you were in an emergency situation. The first thing that you should note when you hear a “clunk” or other noise is try to determine which part of the car it is coming from. If you can .. open the windows and try to determine is it coming from the front or back and is it the left or right side.
Why does my car make a rattling noise when I drive?
To avoid this, cancel and sign in to YouTube on your computer. An error occurred while retrieving sharing information. Please try again later. Rattling, banging, knocking, grinding, or even a front end clunking noise while driving, could be caused by any number of the parts located in that area of the vehicle.
