Clunking noise when turning steering wheel

[nrr311908]

Hello,

I have experiencing clunking noise when I turn the steering wheel of my 2011 S4. I have just replaced my control arms and inner and outer tie rod ends. I also disconnected my sway bar links to rule them out. My next step is to replace my steering rack but wanted to check here before I threw some more money at it. Is there anything in the spring/strut assembly that would cause that type of noise sitting still when you turn the wheel? Not sure how to attach video or I would...

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[LocoLobo]

Does it continue to clunk, or does it only happen one time?

Does it happen when you turn the steering wheel both directions?

Does it happen at the same location when you turn the steering wheel?


I had a clicking issue, and the bolts for the fron LCAs were not torqued correctly. I think they are supposed to be 80 ft/lb + 90° turn? Can't remember, but they were torque to yeild.

If it's repetitive constant clunking while turning, I would look at CV axles.

I've also read that the bolts for the Alu Kruez/that bracket it replaces, can be loose and cause this.

Also read about subframe bolts being loose and needing to be torqued.


One test method that worked for me: Loosen hardware for one control arm at a time. Drive around to see if it still happens. This is how I narrowed down my issue to front LCAs.

[darren.kellum]

Could be the U joints (not sure what they're called) just by the foot pedals on the steering rack rod. I've read many like mine dry out. Pack it full of greese and it goes away for a bit.

[nrr311908]

Does it continue to clunk, or does it only happen one time?

Does it happen when you turn the steering wheel both directions?

Does it happen at the same location when you turn the steering wheel?


I had a clicking issue, and the bolts for the fron LCAs were not torqued correctly. I think they are supposed to be 80 ft/lb + 90° turn? Can't remember, but they were torque to yeild.

If it's repetitive constant clunking while turning, I would look at CV axles.

I've also read that the bolts for the Alu Kruez/that bracket it replaces, can be loose and cause this.

Also read about subframe bolts being loose and needing to be torqued.


One test method that worked for me: Loosen hardware for one control arm at a time. Drive around to see if it still happens. This is how I narrowed down my issue to front LCAs.

So it makes the sound if I turn the wheel to the right or the left at almost any position in the turning radius.

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[LYKUNO]

Your answer may be found in this thread. I had a squeaky wheel as well that turned out to be the intermediate steering shaft. I'd recommend lubricating it before replacing it. If it is fixed with simply lubricating it great, but if persistent, you may need to replace that shaft.

Edit: Here's a related post that has additional useful information as well as a picture of the intermediate shaft. Hope this helps.

Here's a pic of the intermediate shaft, which has got 2 universal joints on it. One or both could be binding and/or in ned of lubrication.

[nrr311908]

Your answer may be found in this thread. I had a squeaky wheel as well that turned out to be the intermediate steering shaft. I'd recommend lubricating it before replacing it. If it is fixed with simply lubricating it great, but if persistent, you may need to replace that shaft.

Edit: Here's a related post that has additional useful information as well as a picture of the intermediate shaft. Hope this helps.

Here's a pic of the intermediate shaft, which has got 2 universal joints on it. One or both could be binding and/or in ned of lubrication.

This was one of next things to try. I actually just bought some grease to lube it up. I was going to try the bottom universal joint first. My if this doesn't work my next guess will be the top strut mounts.

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