Symptoms
- Clicking noise specifically while turning, especially at low speed
- Often more noticeable in one direction than the other
- Clicking speeds up with vehicle speed while turning
- May be paired with visible grease on the inside of the wheel or a torn CV boot
Likely causes
- CommonWorn outer CV jointThis is the classic cause of a turning-related click and is very common as vehicles age.
- CommonTorn CV joint boot allowing grease to escape and dirt to enterA torn boot lets contaminants in, accelerating joint wear until it clicks.
- PossibleLoose wheel bearing contributing to noise while turningWhile less specific to turning than a CV joint, a bearing issue can sometimes seem to correlate.
- Less commonLoose heat shield or brake component contacting something only during wheel turnLess common, but worth ruling out if a CV joint inspection comes back clean.
- Less commonWorn strut mount allowing extra movement while turningUncommon cause of a genuine clicking sound tied specifically to turning.
What to do
- Turn the steering wheel fully to one side and drive slowly in a tight circle (safely, in an empty lot) to see if the clicking is more noticeable.
- Repeat turning the other direction to see if the noise is worse on one side, which helps identify which CV joint is affected.
- Visually inspect the CV boots (the rubber accordion-like covers near each front wheel) for tears or missing grease.
- Check for grease flung onto the inside of the wheel or nearby suspension components, which indicates a torn boot.
- Have a mechanic put the car on a lift to directly inspect the CV joints and boots.
- Avoid ignoring this noise for long, since a fully failed CV joint can eventually separate and leave you unable to drive.
- Replace the CV axle assembly (or just the boot if caught very early) as recommended by the mechanic.
- Get both sides inspected even if only one seems to click, since CV joints on both sides typically wear at a similar rate.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
CV axle assemblySearch: “CV axle for [year make model]”
CV joint boot kit (if caught early)Search: “CV boot kit for [year make model]”
When to call a pro
A clicking noise while turning should be inspected by a mechanic soon, since a fully failed CV joint can leave you stranded; it's usually a straightforward and not overly expensive repair if caught early.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.