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Home/Cars/Toyota/RAV4/XA40 (2013-2018)/why is there a knocking sound when I turn my Toyota RAV4

why is there a knocking sound when I turn my Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
535 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix knocking sound when turning in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Steering
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Ensure vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.

Symptoms

  • •Knocking or clunking noise during turns
  • •Increased steering effort or stiffness
  • •Vibrations felt through the steering wheel
  • •Uneven tire wear
  • •Loose or rattling noise when driving over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the steering linkage for any signs of wear or damage.
  2. 2Check the condition of the tie rod ends and ball joints for play.
  3. 3Examine the suspension components, including struts and bushings, for wear or damage.
  4. 4Inspect the CV joints and boots for signs of tearing or grease leakage.
  5. 5Perform a visual inspection of the wheel bearings for any signs of play or roughness.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and is secured with wheel chocks.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety while working.

2. Inspect and Replace Tie Rod Ends

  1. Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Remove the front wheels to gain access to the steering components.
  3. Locate the tie rod ends and visually inspect them for wear or play.
  4. If worn, use a socket set to remove the cotter pin and nut securing the tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
  5. Unscrew the tie rod end from the steering rack.
  6. Install the new tie rod end by screwing it into the steering rack and securing it with the nut and cotter pin.

3. Inspect and Replace Ball Joints

  1. Check the ball joints by attempting to move them up and down; any significant movement indicates a need for replacement.
  2. Remove the retaining clips and nuts securing the ball joint to the control arm and steering knuckle.
  3. Using a ball joint separator, detach the ball joint from its mount.
  4. Install the new ball joint and secure it with the appropriate hardware.

4. Check and Replace CV Joints

  1. Inspect the CV joints for tears in the boots or grease leakage.
  2. If damaged, remove the axle from the hub assembly by loosening the axle nut.
  3. Disconnect the lower control arm or other necessary components to free the axle.
  4. Install the new CV joint assembly and reattach the axle.

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
  • Ball joint separator
  • Torque wrench
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Pliers

Parts Required

  • Tie rod ends
  • Ball joints
  • CV joints (if applicable)

Additional Information

Component

Steering

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

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