Understanding Clicking and Squeaking Noises in Car Front Wheels

Have you ever heard a clicking sound coming from your car's front wheels, especially during turns? Or a squeaky sound as you drive? These noises can be quite annoying and might indicate a range of issues with your vehicle. In this article, we will explore the most common causes of such sounds, how to identify them, and what you can do to fix them.

Clicking Noise from Front Wheels during Turns

One of the most common sources of a clicking noise in the front wheels while making turns is a defective CV joint. CV joints, or Constant Velocity joints, are responsible for transmitting power from the transmission to the wheels, especially in front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles. They are usually housed in a rubber boot to protect the joint from damage.

In many cases, the issue arises when the rubber boot is damaged, exposing the joint to contaminants such as dirt and water, and leading to loss of its protective grease. This can result in wear and tear, causing the joint to make clicking noises. If you experience these sounds, it’s essential to replace the damaged CV joint to prevent any loss of control and ensure a safe drive.

Brake Wear Indicator Sounds

Another common cause of annoying noises from your car's front wheels is a brake wear indicator. These metal tabs are designed to provide feedback when your brakes need to be replaced. If your brakes are worn out, these tabs will rub against the brake rotors, producing a clicking or twitching sound.

These sounds are often very noticeable, and while they can be annoying, they serve an important purpose. If you hear this sound, it is a clear signal that it's time to inspect and, if necessary, replace your brakes. Neglecting to address this issue can lead to significant safety concerns, as failing brakes can be dangerous.

Other Potential Causes

There are several other potential causes for clicking and squeaking sounds in the front wheels, and one of the most likely is a CV joint/boot that is cracked or dried out. This could be particularly common in older models, such as early to mid-2000s or 90s Civics. If you suspect this is the case, it might be a good idea to inspect the rubber boot while jacking up your car. Safety is paramount, so it’s crucial to use A-frame jacks to provide additional support under the car.

Inspect the rubber boot for any signs of cracks or leaking grease, as these are indicators of potential problems. If you find any signs of damage, it's best to replace the CV joint and fill it with new grease to ensure smooth operation.

Another possible cause of a metal-on-metal rubbing noise, which can be mistaken for a clicking sound, is a bent heat shield that is lightly touching the rotor. While less common, it's still something to consider if you're not sure what's causing the noise.

Common Noises Explained

Now that we’ve covered the common causes, let’s look at the specific noises you might hear:

Clicking noise during turns: Likely a defective or improperly lubricated CV joint. If the rubber boot is damaged, it can lead to contamination and wear, resulting in clicking sounds.

Clicking or twitching noise while driving: This noise usually indicates the presence of a brake wear indicator, indicating that it's time to replace your brakes.

Clicking sound from a CV joint/boot: A cracked or dried-out CV joint/boot can cause these sounds, especially in older models. Inspection and replacement are necessary to prevent damage and ensure safety.

Squeaky sound from brakes: A metal-on-metal rubbing noise could be due to a bent heat shield touching the rotor. However, it’s often caused by worn brake pads.

It's important to diagnose these noises as soon as possible to avoid further damage and maintain the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Regular inspections and timely replacements are key to preventing such issues.