Clicking Noise When Turning

That rapid clicking or popping when you turn — especially at low speed — is one of the most recognizable car sounds out there. It's almost always a CV joint.

A clicking or popping noise that happens during turns is the textbook symptom of a failing outer CV (constant velocity) joint. These joints connect your axle to the wheel hub and allow the axle to flex as you steer. Each joint is packed with grease and protected by a rubber boot. When that boot cracks or tears, grease leaks out and dirt gets in. The joint wears rapidly after that, and the clicking you hear is the worn internal components slipping against each other during rotation.

You can confirm it by turning the steering wheel to full lock and driving slowly in a circle — a bad CV joint will click rhythmically, getting faster as your speed increases. The sound is usually louder when turning in one direction, which tells you which side is bad. Once a CV joint starts clicking, it won't heal itself. The fix is replacing the entire CV axle (the joint isn't serviceable separately on most modern cars). Catching a torn boot early can save money since a boot kit is much cheaper than a full axle.

Our mobile mechanics handle CV axle replacements all over Jacksonville, FL. It's a straightforward job we can knock out in your driveway — no reason to tow the car or drive it to a shop with a clicking axle. We bring the replacement axle and tools to your location. Call (904) 788-7272 and we'll have you turning quietly again.