Clicking Noise When Turning: Causes and Fixes

A rhythmic clicking or popping sound when you turn, especially during tight turns in a parking lot, is the classic sign of a worn CV (constant velocity) joint. CV joints are on the axles that send power to the front wheels on most cars.

It usually starts when the rubber boot around the joint tears and the grease leaks out, letting in dirt and water. Caught early, it is a common, moderately priced repair. Ignored long enough, the joint can fail completely.

When to stop driving

Stop and check immediately if you suspect loose lug nuts, if the noise turns into loud clunking or grinding, if the car vibrates heavily when accelerating, or if the steering feels loose. A failed axle or loose wheel can leave the car unable to move or cause loss of control.

Most common causes

Worn outer CV joint

The most common cause of clicking when turning. The clicking gets faster as you speed up and is loudest in sharp turns while accelerating.

Torn CV boot

A torn boot slings grease onto the inside of the wheel and suspension. The joint may not click yet, but it will soon without its grease.

Worn strut mount or suspension parts

A clunk, creak or pop when turning the wheel, even while parked or moving slowly, can come from worn strut mounts, ball joints or tie rod ends.

Low power steering fluid

A whining or groaning noise (rather than clicking) when turning can mean low power steering fluid on cars with hydraulic steering.

Loose wheel or lug nuts

A clicking or knocking from a wheel, especially after a recent tire change, can mean loose lug nuts. This is dangerous; check right away.

What you can safely check yourself

In an empty parking lot, turn the wheel all the way and drive slowly in a circle, then circle the other way. Note which direction makes the clicking louder; it helps pinpoint which side is worn.
With the car parked and the engine off, look behind the front wheels at the axle boots (rubber accordion covers). Look for tears or grease sprayed around.
If you recently had tires changed, check that the lug nuts are tight.
Notice the type of noise: clicking (CV joint), clunking or popping (suspension), whining (power steering), humming that changes with speed (wheel bearing).
Check the power steering fluid level if your car has a reservoir and you hear whining.

When to call a mechanic

Have the CV axle inspected soon if you hear clicking or see a torn boot. Replacing a whole CV axle is common and often cheaper than rebuilding the joint. It is an intermediate DIY job, but many people prefer to have a shop do it.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to drive with a clicking CV joint?

For a short time, usually yes, but it will get worse. If the joint fails completely, the car may not move or the wheel could lose drive. Get it checked soon, and right away if it clunks or vibrates.

What does a bad CV joint sound like?

A clicking or popping noise when turning, especially sharp turns while accelerating. It gets faster as the car speeds up.

Can I just replace the CV boot?

If you catch a torn boot before the joint starts clicking, a boot replacement can work. Once it clicks, replacing the whole axle is usually the better fix.

Why does my car make noise when turning but not driving straight?

CV joints and some suspension parts only work at an angle when turning, so their noises often appear only in turns.