Front suspension clicking noise? What else should I replace at 135k?

[Strider]

I own a 2005 v6 SR5 4Runner with 136k. None of the shocks or struts have been replaced. We bought it about 6 months ago. I noticed a clicking noise on the front passenger side whenever we go over a bump.

I've replaced struts on a Impreza last year and have learned a lot from forums and YouTube so my knowledge is pretty low, but I learn as I need to repair stuff. My question is, I can probably take it somewhere to diagnose, but if I get in there and start replacing a few items, what are some upgrades or items you'd all suggest at this mileage since I am already under there?

I don't tow or really 4wheel, this is just the family car. Also it still has the lowered stock front compared to the rear. I have noticed some level that out, I have not yet.

Thanks for the advice!

 

[fdbyrne]

I wouldn't assume that it's the shocks. Of all the things that it could be, that may be the least likely.

More likely culprits would be sway bar ends, sway bar bushings, CV shafts, or ball joints in that order.

Pull your sway bar off and drive it for a few days. If it's the ends or bushings, your sound will go away.

 

[Strider]

Thanks!

Great idea! I'll YouTube or search this forum for some stuff on that. It's an annoying noise not sure how important it is though. If I do that and notice it goes away what would you suggest replacing all of those pieces? Would I do both sides most likely?

Thanks!

 

[fdbyrne]

If the noise stops, just go ahead and replace the bushings and ends on both sides. They are so cheap that you might just as well do them all.

 

[tomcat144d]

re clicking

Well I have 198987 miles on my 4g now I kept hearing a popping sound when I would back out of my drive way and it would also hit the bump I tracked it do to the sway bar link. My shocks are still the ones it can with until 184k miles they were replaced but the factory ones never did leak and still fully popped up after the springs were replaced.