Symptoms
- Clicking or popping sound when turning, especially sharply
- Noise is worse when accelerating through a turn
- Grease visible flung around the inside of the wheel or tire
Likely causes
- CommonWorn or damaged outer CV jointOnce the protective boot tears, dirt and water get in and wear out the joint, causing clicking.
- CommonTorn CV boot allowing grease to escape and contamination to enterA torn boot is often the root cause and, if caught early, can sometimes be replaced before the joint itself is damaged.
What to do
- Turn the steering wheel to full lock in both directions in a parking lot at low speed and listen for clicking.
- Inspect the CV boots (rubber accordion-looking covers near each front wheel) for tears or missing grease.
- Look for flung grease on the inside of the wheel or nearby suspension parts, a sign of a torn boot.
- If caught early with just a torn boot and no clicking yet, have the boot replaced before the joint wears out.
- If clicking is already present, plan to have the CV axle or joint replaced, since the joint itself is likely damaged by that point.
Tools and parts
CV axle assembly or CV joint boot kitSearch: “CV axle for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
Have a mechanic inspect the CV boots and joints; if clicking has started, the full axle is usually replaced rather than just the joint.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.