If that's the only time you hear it, probably the best suspect is a binding upper strut mount. It holds up the weight on that entire corner of the car, but has a bearing assembly to allow the steering system to turn. By itself, that is not a safety issue, but if it gets much worse, it can cause the steering system to stay where you turned it rather than returning to center on its own. That can make for a miserable driving experience, but it doesn't get that bad very often.
A clue is you will usually hear the thumping sound when turning the steering wheel while the car isn't moving. If there's room, you can also reach over the top of one of the front tires, wrap your fingertips lightly on the coil spring, then have a helper turn the steering wheel back and forth. That spring should rotate smoothly. When the upper strut mount has dirt in it or the bearing is just sticking, you'll feel tension build in the spring, then it will suddenly pop free and rotate a little.
Binding upper mounts cause much less trouble while you're driving because normal road vibrations allow the bearing to rotate normally. If dirt is the issue, sometimes the binding will clear up on its own.
If you can't tell if the upper mount is the cause, have the steering and suspension systems inspected at any tire and alignment shop, or your regular mechanic. Other worn parts can cause clunking noises, but the mileage you listed is much too low to suspect those parts first. Let me know what you find, then we can figure out the best course of action.
Friday, July 11th, 2025 AT 6:39 PM
