Why does my 2020 Toyota Camry make clunking noises when turning?

Toyota Camry Eighth Generation (2018-present)

Error Codes

4-6 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

688 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair clunking noises when turning your 2020 Toyota Camry with our step-by-step guide.

Affected Component

CV joints, suspension components, steering rack, wheel bearings

Estimated Time

4-6 hours

Symptoms

•A noticeable clunking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel
•Noise may occur at low speeds or during tight turns
•Possible vibrations in the steering wheel during turns
•No abnormal sounds when driving straight

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Inspection
2
Test Drive
3
Check for Fault Codes

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Flashlight
•mechanic’s creeper
•gloves
•OBD-II scanner
•socket set
•torque wrench
•pry bar
•CV joint puller
•replacement parts (bushings, control arms, etc.)
•wheel bearing puller

Related Faults

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Diagnosing Clunking Noises When Turning on a 2020 Toyota Camry

1. Visual Inspection

Tools Required: Flashlight, mechanic’s creeper (optional), gloves.
Procedure:
- Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Inspect the CV (Constant Velocity) joints for any signs of grease leakage or damage. Pay close attention to the rubber boots for tears or cracks.
- Check the steering rack and tie rod ends for any play or damage.
- Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, and struts) for wear or looseness.
- Inspect wheel bearings for play by grasping the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock and wiggling it. Any movement indicates potential bearing failure.

2. Test Drive

Procedure:
- Drive the vehicle in a safe area to replicate the noise.
- Make several tight turns and listen carefully for the point at which the clunking noise occurs.
- Note if the noise is more pronounced on one side.

3. Check for Fault Codes

Tools Required: OBD-II scanner.
Procedure:
- Connect the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Check for any fault codes that might indicate an issue with the steering or suspension systems.

Common Causes

Worn CV Joints: Commonly responsible for clunking noises when turning. Check for torn boots or excessive play.
Loose or Worn Suspension Components: Such as control arm bushings or sway bar links.
Steering Rack Issues: If the steering rack is loose, it can cause noises during turns.
Wheel Bearing Failure: A failing wheel bearing can produce clunking noises when weight shifts during turns.

Repair Instructions

1. Replacing Worn CV Joints

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, pry bar, CV joint puller, new CV joint assembly.
Procedure:
1. Lift the vehicle and remove the front wheel.
2. Remove the axle nut using a socket.
3. Disconnect the lower ball joint from the control arm to gain access to the CV joint.
4. Use the CV joint puller to detach the CV joint from the transmission.
5. Install the new CV joint by reversing the removal steps and ensuring all bolts are torqued to specified values.

2. Replacing Damaged Suspension Components

Tools Required: Socket set, wrench set, torque wrench, pry bar, replacement parts (bushings, control arms, etc.).
Procedure:
1. Identify the damaged component through visual inspection.
2. Remove the wheel and locate the damaged part.
3. Use a pry bar to relieve tension on the component if necessary.
4. Remove bolts and the damaged part.
5. Install the new part and torque bolts to manufacturer specifications.

3. Inspecting/Repairing Steering Rack

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, possibly a steering rack replacement.
Procedure:
1. If the steering rack is identified as the issue, disconnect the battery.
2. Remove the tie rod ends from the steering rack.
3. Unbolt the steering rack from its mounting points.
4. Install the new steering rack and reassemble, ensuring all connections are secure.

4. Replacing Wheel Bearings

Tools Required: Wheel bearing puller, socket set, torque wrench.
Procedure:
1. Remove the wheel and brake assembly.
2. Remove the hub assembly.
3. Use the wheel bearing puller to remove the old bearing.
4. Press in the new bearing and reassemble in the reverse order, torquing bolts to specifications.

Final Checks

After repairs, lower the vehicle and take it for a test drive to ensure that the clunking noise is resolved.
Conduct a final visual inspection of the work done to ensure everything is secure and correctly installed.

Conclusion

Following these steps should help you diagnose and repair the clunking noise when turning your 2020 Toyota Camry. If the problem persists after performing these checks and repairs, consider consulting a professional mechanic for a more in-depth diagnosis.