why does my Toyota Highlander make a clicking noise when turning

Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Error Codes

3-5 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

617 words

Problem Statement

Discover how to diagnose and fix the clicking noise when turning in your Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

3-5 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.
•Allow the engine to cool completely before performing any repairs.

Symptoms

•Clicking noise during turns, especially when the steering is fully engaged
•Vibration felt through the steering wheel
•Decreased turning responsiveness or control
•Possible grinding noise if the issue worsens
•Unusual wear on tires or uneven tire tread

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the CV joints for wear or damage.
2
Check the wheel bearings for play or grinding.
3
Look for signs of a failed strut or shock absorber.
4
Examine the suspension bushings for deterioration.
5
Test drive the vehicle in a safe area to replicate the noise while turning.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•Bearing puller
•Spring compressor
•Bushing removal tool

Parts Required

•CV joint or axle assembly
•Wheel bearings
•Struts or shocks (if needed)
•Suspension bushings (if needed)

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Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and park the vehicle on a level surface.
Ensure the engine is off and the keys are removed from the ignition.
Wear safety gloves and goggles.

2. Inspect and Replace CV Joints

Sub-step 1: Lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Sub-step 2: Remove the front wheels using a socket set.
Sub-step 3: Inspect the CV boots for tears or leaks; replace if necessary.
Sub-step 4: If the CV joint is damaged, remove the axle nut and disconnect the axle from the hub.
Sub-step 5: Install the new CV joint or axle, torque the axle nut to the manufacturer's specification (usually around 150 ft-lbs).
Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, pry bar.

3. Check and Replace Wheel Bearings

Sub-step 1: With the wheel removed, grasp the wheel hub and check for play; any movement indicates a bad bearing.
Sub-step 2: If the bearing is faulty, remove the hub assembly and extract the old bearing using a bearing puller.
Sub-step 3: Install the new bearing and reassemble the hub, ensuring proper torque specifications are followed (typically around 100-130 ft-lbs for hub bolts).
Tools Required: Bearing puller, socket set, torque wrench.

4. Examine Suspension Components

Sub-step 1: Inspect struts and shocks for leaks or damage.
Sub-step 2: If damaged, remove the strut assembly from the vehicle (usually involves removing the top strut mount and lower bolts).
Sub-step 3: Replace with new struts, ensuring to torque all bolts to specification (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs for strut mounts).
Tools Required: Socket set, spring compressor (if replacing struts).

5. Replace Suspension Bushings

Sub-step 1: Inspect all suspension bushings for cracks or wear.
Sub-step 2: If necessary, remove the bolt securing the control arm to the chassis and extract the old bushing with a bushing removal tool.
Sub-step 3: Install the new bushing, reassemble, and torque to specification (generally around 50-60 ft-lbs).
Tools Required: Bushing removal tool, socket set.