Clicking noise when turning

A rhythmic clicking or popping when turning sharply, especially while accelerating, is the classic sign of a worn outer CV joint on front-wheel-drive cars.

AreaNoises
UrgencyModerate

Can I keep driving? Drivable with care. Diagnose soon: performance, economy or other components can be affected.

Common causes

Worn outer CV joint

Usually after a split boot let grease out and dirt in.

Split CV boot

Grease sprayed around the inside of the wheel.

Worn strut mount

Click or creak when turning at low speed.

Loose wheel cover or brake shield

Clicking that follows wheel speed in any direction.

What to check

  1. Look for torn CV boots and grease inside the wheel arch.
  2. Turn sharply in a car park while accelerating gently to reproduce it.
  3. Replace a torn boot early: it is much cheaper than a CV joint.

Other noises problems

Squealing noise from the engineClunking noise over bumpsHumming or droning noise while driving

General guidance only. A qualified technician can confirm the cause; brakes, steering and fuel leaks should be checked professionally if in doubt.