Clunking sound when steering over bumps

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by LazuliNyx, Dec 14, 2024.

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  1. LazuliNyx

    LazuliNyx Junior Member

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    2010 Prius
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    Two
    I've started noticing a clunking sound when I'm steering any amount while driving over small bumps. I'm curious if this might be the tie rod ends, or if there's something else I should look at. It seems to be coming from the front driver's side wheel. It doesn't really make that sound when I'm driving forward (because I'm too queer to drive straight :p) but if I turn the wheels even a few degrees it makes the sound over the smallest bump. If I replace the tie rod ends, will I need to get an alignment done?
    Thanks!
     
    #1 LazuliNyx, Dec 14, 2024
  2. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    Check your front sway bar end links too. You didn't say how many miles you have on the odometer, but our 2011 Prius hatchback had front sway bar end links with bushings that were worn down completely.

    You can see your sway bar end links if you turn your front wheels all the way to the turn locks, then go to the front wheel and look at the sway bar end link bushings, ours had rubber bushings that were worn through on one half of the circular bushing. That could be your problem, especially if you have never replaced yours.

    See this video, to see what I'm talking about.



    SM-G781V ?
     
    #2 xliderider, Dec 14, 2024
  3. LazuliNyx

    LazuliNyx Junior Member

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    Location:
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    Two
    So funny story, I replaced those a month ago. I’ll check them and make sure they’re tight.
     
    #3 LazuliNyx, Dec 14, 2024
    xliderider likes this.
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