PullClunking over bumps
General info, not professional advice. These are common causes that apply to most cars, not a diagnosis of yours. If you are unsure or a problem affects brakes, steering, airbags or fuel, see a qualified mechanic.
Likely causes (most common first)
- Worn sway bar links or bushings
A light clunk or rattle over small bumps.
🔎 Find a used sway bar link - Worn struts or shocks
The car bounces, leaks oil at the strut, or nose-dives when braking.
🔎 Find a used strut - Worn control arm bushings or ball joints
A clunk with wandering steering or uneven tire wear.
🔎 Find a used control arm - Loose or worn tie rod ends
Loose steering or clunks when turning.
🔎 Find a used tie rod end
Quick safe checks
- Push down hard on each corner. More than one or two bounces suggests worn shocks or struts.
- Look for oily residue on struts and torn rubber boots on joints.
- Check tires for uneven or cupped wear.
Safety first
- ⚠️ Never get under a car held up only by a jack. Use rated jack stands on solid, level ground and chock the wheels.
When to see a pro
Steering feels loose or wanders, you hear clunks while turning, or anything looks bent or broken. Ball joint and tie rod failures can cause loss of control.