Front suspension area noise 2003 4runner sport v6

[danielatx]

Clanking sound and slight curve noise on 2003 4Runner V6

So I have this 2003 4runner sport v6 and trying to find out why its making 2 types of noises that seem to come from the front end.

The first type of noise happens when i turn the steering wheel slightly to the right and im driving more than 40 miles per hour. I hear this slight humming sound that sounds like its coming from the front side (most likely the front right side).

The second noise comes when i'm driving at any speed but more often at slow speeds. There is a really annoying clanking sound that sounds like it comes from the front side. It happens every time i am going over very small bumps in the road.

Repairs that have already been done within past year: front struts, rear shocks, strut mounts, stabilizer links, shock mounts, rear wheel hub module, rear axle shaft and bearing assemblies, new tires

 

[danielatx]

Clanking sound and slight curve noise 2003 4Runner

So this clanking noise seems to be going on for a while and changing the shocks, struts, and tires never seemed to improve this issue. The shocks and struts had to be replaced anyway (they were leaking) and the tires were almost worn out. To be more specific, this clanking noise happens at all speeds but I hear it mostly when im driving at slow speeds. Sounds like metal to metal hitting as if whatever rubber was there before seems to be worn out. The clanking noise is really annoying. There also seems to be a lot of play in the steering wheel and if i go over a railroad it seems though i lose control of steering for a while.

 

[NEExpo]

Get under there and grab your driver side axle. Try to move it back and forth (in the direction of front of the 4Runner to the rear of the 4Runner). Pay close attention, if the axle moves a lot where it goes into the front diff, it's your needle bearings that are shot and could cause the axle to flop around making noise. Check your steering rack bushings as well. If they are wore out, it could cause your steering rack to bounce around making noise and cause the issue with the steering. Good luck!

 

[NEExpo]

Oh...and did you change any of the ball joints or inner and outer tie rods? If you haven't, that might be your clanking issue. Check them for excessive wear and play.

 

[Porqupine82]

The clanking is your sway bar bushings...

Changing them will immediately fix your problem.

If you want to make sure before buying the bushings, remove the sway bar and go for a short drive... the sound will be gone.