Is your car making a clicking noise when driving?
Don’t worry, we’ll tell you why.
A clicking noise can result from issues across several components. Depending on where it’s coming from, the cause could range from a pebble in your tire to a failing engine part.
Here are the common culprits:
A. CV Axle
The CV axle transfers power from the transmission to the wheels. The following parts can result in a clicking sound:
1. Worn CV Axle Parts
The constant velocity (CV) axle components, such as the CV joints or shaft, can wear out. This creates excess space between parts, making them knock against each other (especially while turning) and producing a clicking sound.
2. Torn CV Boot
If the CV boot (a rubber cover that holds grease to lubricate the CV joint) tears, grease leaks out. This reduces lubrication within the CV joint, causing wear and a clicking noise.
B. Wheels
Issues with the wheels themselves can create rhythmic clicking sounds, especially when rotating at speed. This can include:
3. Debris in the Tire Thread
When stones or debris from the road get stuck between the tire threads, they produce a clicking sound.
4. Loose Wheel Parts
When the wheel bearing, hubcap, or wheel cover becomes loose, you might hear a clicking noise.
C. Engine
The following internal engine problems can cause metal parts to strike or struggle, producing a noticeable click:
5. Insufficient Engine Oil
Low engine oil leads to increased friction and accelerated wear in the vehicle. When the metal parts move, they strike each other and produce a clicking sound.
6. Dirty Fuel Injector
A fuel injector generates a clicking noise when deposits or sludge accumulate in the internal solenoid, and it struggles to open and close.
7. Faulty Timing Chain
The timing chain makes a clicking noise when it shifts out of place or suffers damage.
D. Brake System
You may hear strange sounds from the brake due to:
8. Loose or Worn Brake Pad
A clicking sound occurs when a worn brake pad becomes loose and momentarily contacts the rotor as you press the brake pedal.
E. Suspension System
Components can shift under load, leading to:
9. Poor Suspension system
Your vehicle’s suspension system emits a clicking noise when damaged components, such as ball joints, sway bar links, and more, rub against each other.
F. Electrical System
Electrical issues often cause rapid clicking due to:
10. Worn Alternator Parts
Internal components of the alternator, such as worn bearings or a failing voltage regulator, can produce a clicking sound while driving.
11. Insufficient Voltage or Power
Weak voltage and corroded battery terminals may not supply sufficient power to the battery, failing to start the vehicle. When you turn the key, the starter solenoid may not engage the starter motor, triggering a clicking noise.
12. Faulty Starter Motor
A failing starter motor can produce a clicking sound when it struggles to engage and turn the engine over, preventing the combustion process from beginning.
If left unrepaired, a clicking noise can severely damage important vehicle components. Luckily, AutoNation Mobile Service can come to you and fix the issue immediately before the problem escalates.
Want to know more about the underlying issues behind the clicking sound?
Keep reading to learn if it’s safe to drive with the noise, how to identify its source, and ways to prevent it.
This Article Contains:
- Can You Drive with a Clicking Noise?
- How to Identify the Source of the Clicking Sound
- How to Fix the Clicking Noise and Its Associated Costs
- How to Prevent Clicking Noises in Your Vehicle
Can You Drive with a Clicking Noise?
No, you shouldn’t drive your vehicle until the source of the clicking sound is properly diagnosed and repaired.
The underlying cause could be severe, such as a malfunctioning CV axle, and driving with it may worsen the damage. In some cases, it could even lead to a loss of vehicle control and pose an injury risk.
Luckily, it’s easy to determine what is causing the strange noise.
How to Identify the Source of the Clicking Sound
You can narrow down the cause of a clicking sound based on when it occurs:
- While driving: It may be due to low or dirty engine oil
- During sharp turns: A faulty CV axle is likely the cause
- While turning: You have faulty suspension system parts
- When braking or driving slowly: A worn brake pad could be responsible
- While idling: A dirty fuel injector or timing chain may create the noise
- At startup:
- A single click may point to issues with the starter motor or other engine components
- Rapid clicking usually indicates a faulty battery or alternator
Once you’ve figured out the reason, consult a mechanic to confirm the issue and fix it.
How to Fix the Clicking Noise and Its Associated Costs
Your mechanic will follow different steps depending on which component is causing the issue:
A. Constant velocity (CV) axle
If the CV axle is worn, your mechanic may replace it. This typically costs between $930 and $1,400. Your mechanic may suggest individual parts replacement if the CV boot or joint is causing the noise.
Here are the estimated costs (including labor) if you opt for individual part replacements:
- CV boot: $300 to $510
- CV joint: $1,000 to $1,080
B. Wheel
Your mechanic will inspect the tire treads for stones or debris, and use pliers to remove them if needed. If the clicking sound persists, they’ll check if wheel bearings, hubcaps, or wheel covers are properly secured.
Typically, your mechanic checks these areas during routine maintenance, like an oil change or tire rotation. However, if you request a separate inspection, the labor cost may range between $20 and $170, depending on the shop’s hourly rate and diagnostic time.
C. Engine
Your mechanic will replace the engine oil if it’s dirty. Depending on the oil type and service provider, the cost will range from $35 to $250.
If a worn timing chain makes the clicking sound, they’ll replace it, which usually costs between $1,600 and $1,950.
If a clogged fuel injector is the culprit, they’ll clean it thoroughly. However, if the clog is severe, they’ll replace the fuel injector, which can cost anywhere from $335 to $2,000.
D. Brake System
It typically costs between $35 and $150 to replace all worn brake pads. If other brake components are damaged, here’s what you’ll have to pay:
- Brake caliper: $300 to $1,500 (including labor)
- Anti-rattle spring: $10 to $20 (excluding labor)
- Brake shim: $5 to $26 (excluding labor)
E. Suspension System
Depending on the make and model, replacing the entire suspension system can cost between $1,000 and $5,000. If you’re looking to replace parts individually, here’s what it might cost (including labor):
- Control arm bushing: $200 and $420
- Sway bar link: $75 and $305
- Strut mounts: $190 to $400
- Coil springs: $350 to $880
F. Electrical System
If your mechanic suspects an electrical issue, they’ll conduct a crank test on the battery. If the voltmeter reads below ~9.6V, they may replace the battery. This service usually ranges from $75 to $200 or more.
If the terminals are corroded, they’ll clean them, which typically costs between $37 and $54.
Once your mechanic determines that the alternator is causing the sound, they’ll repair it if the issue is minor. If not, they’ll suggest replacing it, which costs $350 to $600 for compact cars and $700 to $1,500 for luxury cars.
Clearly, fixing a clicking sound can be expensive in some cases. However, taking necessary precautions can help you save on repair costs.
How to Prevent Clicking Noises in Your Vehicle
Here are a few steps you can take to steer clear of clicking noises:
- Routine service checks: Strictly follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular checkups of your battery, engine oil, and brakes.
- Timely parts replacement: Replace worn-out components like timing belts, brake pads, and wheel bearings.
- Smooth driving: Drive carefully over potholes, speed bumps, and uneven surfaces to minimize impact on the suspension and steering components.
Fix the Clicking Noise Promptly to Prevent Severe Damage
A clicking noise from your vehicle can be unsettling, especially when its source is unclear. While some causes may be minor, others could lead to serious mechanical failures if left unchecked.
That’s why it’s essential to have a professional mechanic inspect the issue promptly and prevent costly repairs.
Got no time to visit a mechanic?
AutoNation Mobile Service will come to you.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution offering a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty and easy online booking for all repairs.
Contact us to diagnose and get rid of annoying vehicle noises right away.