Car symptom
Clunk / knock over bumps
A clunk over bumps tells you a lot by when and where it happens: front, rear, turning or braking.
Most likely causes
- Worn strut / top mount
- Anti-roll bar links / bushes
- Worn control arm bushes
- CV joint (when turning)
- Loose caliper (when braking)
Checks to run
- Bounce-test each corner
- Check anti-roll bar links and bushes
- Inspect top mounts and control arms
Tools you may need
Trolley jack
Pry bar
Confirm before replacing. These are hypotheses to check — never buy parts on a guess. If the fault involves brakes, airbags or fuel under pressure, use a professional.
Advertisement
FAQ
It depends on the cause. Some causes are cheap and quick; others (like a head gasket or seized caliper) need attention soon. Work through the checks in order and confirm before replacing parts.
Start with the free checks listed here. If they involve high voltage, fuel under pressure, airbags or brakes, let a professional handle it.
The interactive diagnostic asks targeted questions to narrow it down, and every cause must be confirmed with a measurement — never guess.