Are you hearing a clicking noise when turning your Tesla? You’re not alone. Many Tesla owners have reported a clicking sound during turns, especially noticeable when steering around 180 degrees. This noise can feel unsettling, but it often has a common cause and solution. Let’s explore what might be making that noise and how we can fix it.
Based on our experiences and feedback from fellow Tesla owners, this clicking often comes from the CV joints, especially in AWD models. Though it sounds like a major issue, a quick inspection could reveal something minor. For example, loose bolts or lack of lubrication can lead to these annoying sounds. Getting your car checked can save time and prevent bigger issues down the road.
We also discovered other reasons for the noise. It could be due to issues with the front subframe skid plate or even a creaking from the front right wheel well. Addressing these sounds promptly will ensure your driving experience stays smooth and quiet. Stay tuned as we dig deeper into these potential problems and how to solve them efficiently.
JUMP TO TOPIC
Solving Tesla Clicking Noise When Turning
Having a clicking noise when turning can be really annoying, 🛠️ but luckily, there are solutions. Let’s dive into the common causes and fixes.
First, it’s important to figure out where the noise is coming from. The sound often indicates issues with the CV joints or the front subframe. If you hear this noise when turning your Model 3, you’re not alone. 🚗 Many Tesla owners have reported similar problems.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Test Drive: Take your car for a test drive and listen for that clicking noise.
- Inspect CV Joints: Front wheel drive and all-wheel drive models have CV joints that may wear out.
- Front Subframe: Sometimes, the front subframe skid plate can be the culprit.
We had a customer who brought in their Model 3 for a similar issue. After a quick diagnostic, we verified the noise was coming from the CV joint. We replaced it, and the car was as quiet as a mouse. 🐭
If ignored, this issue can worsen and affect your driving experience.
Another great tip is to get your car inspected by a certified Tesla Service Center. They have the proper tools and know-how to dig into the problem and fix it. 🛠️ Plus, they can check if there’s any debris caught in the subframe skid plate.
It’s a relief when that pesky clicking noise disappears. No more clack-clack every time you turn! 🌟 Stay on top of these small issues to keep your Tesla running smoothly.
Possible Causes of Clicking Noise
Some of the most frequent sources of a clicking noise when turning in a Tesla are worn-out CV joints, loose lug nuts, and various suspension issues. Each cause has specific symptoms that can help identify the problem.
Worn Out CV Joints
Worn-out CV joints are a common cause of clicking noises, especially during turns. CV joints, or constant velocity joints, connect the transmission to the wheels. When these joints wear out, they make a distinct clicking noise, particularly noticeable when turning.
If your Tesla is making a ticking sound while turning, it’s important to inspect the CV joints. Over time, these joints can lose lubrication, get damaged, or simply wear out due to use. Often, you might notice grease leaking near the front wheel, which is a telltale sign of CV joint issues.
Loose Lug Nuts
Loose lug nuts can also cause clicking noises when turning. This is an easy problem to overlook but can be quite serious. When lug nuts are not properly tightened, the wheel can shift slightly, causing a clicking or rattling noise.
Driving with loose lug nuts can be dangerous.
Before diagnosing more complex issues, check that your Tesla’s lug nuts are securely fastened. Regularly inspect and tighten them to avoid this simple yet hazardous problem. This is a quick fix, but it’s crucial for your safety.
Suspension Issues
Suspension issues are another major culprit behind clicking noises when turning. Components like the control arm, axle, or bushings may need to be repaired or replaced. The upper control arms and lower control arm bushings can wear out over time, leading to these noises.
Suspension problems can also involve the steering rack, brake calipers, or other parts related to the car’s handling. For example, a faulty ball joint or worn bushings in the upper A-arms can creak or click during turns. Unlike CV joints, suspension issues are often accompanied by changes in how the car handles. You might feel the ride is rougher or less stable.
| Component | Issue | Noise |
| CV Joint | Wear and tear | Clicking |
| Lug Nuts | Loose | Clicking |
| Suspension | Various | Various |
If you hear a clicking noise while turning, it could be due to worn-out CV joints, loose lug nuts, or suspension issues. Checking these components can help keep your Tesla running smoothly and safely.
Diagnosing the Issue
To understand and fix the clicking sound when turning your Tesla, we need to follow three main steps. These include listening closely to the noise, visually inspecting the parts, and talking to a professional for more complex issues.
Listening for the Noise
First, let’s focus on listening. We need to pay attention to the type of noise and when it occurs.
Identify the Sound:
Is it a clicking, clunking, or grinding sound? Clicks usually indicate issues with the CV joints or steering components.
When it Happens:
Does it happen at low speeds, while accelerating, or only when turning left? Noting these details helps pinpoint the cause.
Variation in Sound:
Try turning the steering wheel both left and right. Does the noise change? This can indicate whether the problem lies within the front axle or elsewhere.
Visually Inspecting Parts
Next, let’s check the parts of the car.
Front Subframe Skid Plate:
Inspect this if the noise is coming from the front. Damaged or loose skid plates often click during turns.
Steering Components:
Look at the steering column, wheel, and connections. A clicking sound here might mean a worn-out part.
Constant Velocity (CV) Joints:
These are critical. Worn or damaged CV joints often cause clicking noises when the steering wheel is turned all the way. Inspect them carefully.
Wheels and Tires:
Make sure tires are in good condition and properly aligned. Sometimes, misalignment leads to strange noises.
Consulting a Professional
🔧 Sometimes, we can’t resolve issues on our own. Talking to a mechanic can be essential.
Qualified Technicians:
Visit a Tesla service center. Qualified technicians have the experience to diagnose and repair these specific problems.
Service Bulletin:
Check if Tesla has issued a service bulletin related to your problem. These documents often provide free repairs for common issues.
Professional Opinion:
Get a second opinion if you’re unsure. Two heads are better than one, right?
Safety First:
Addressing the issue quickly ensures your safety and prevents further damage to your car. Don’t ignore continuous noises for too long.
Preventive Measures
Preventing a clicking noise in your Tesla when turning can involve regular maintenance and checking for wear and tear. These steps will help keep your car running smoothly and save money.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for addressing minor issues before they become big problems.
First, ensure your Tesla gets scheduled services, typically recommended every 12,000 miles. This includes checking and lubricating parts like the steering system and suspension.
Using the right grease can keep parts moving smoothly and prevent noise. We shouldn’t ignore software updates either. Tesla frequently fixes bugs and improves performance through over-the-air updates.
Lastly, it’s good practice to keep an ear out for unusual noises. If you hear something odd, don’t hesitate to consult a service center.
Checking for Wear and Tear
Regularly checking your car for wear and tear can save us from potential headaches. Look for visible damage on the steering components, such as the tie rods, ball joints, and power steering rack.
If our tires are wearing unevenly, it might indicate a problem with the alignment or another part of the steering system. Check the tire pressure often; if it’s low, it can stress the components.
Pay special attention to how your car handles. If the steering feels different or if there are new noises when you turn, it’s time to investigate. Staying attentive can help us catch issues early before they lead to costly repairs.
By sticking to these preventive measures, we can keep our Teslas in top shape and enjoy a smoother, quieter ride.
Conclusion
We’ve covered several aspects of the mysterious clicking noise when turning in Tesla vehicles. Through researching various forums and personal experiences, it’s clear that this is a meaningful topic for many Tesla owners.
It’s often the front subframe or CV joint that’s causing that annoying click-clack. Here are some common fixes:
Don’t forget, if your Tesla is still under warranty, reach out to the service center. They often handle these issues free of charge. This saves you the hassle of DIY fixes.
Our experience has shown that during a U-turn or sharp left turns, the clicks are louder and more noticeable. Many owners have verified it through test drives and service reports.
If you just got your Tesla back and the clicking persists, it’s okay to ask for a reevaluation. Remember, sometimes the simplest solutions—like adding a bit of lubricant strategically—can solve the problem.
So, let’s not let a few clicks ruin our driving experience. Happy driving, and here’s to a smoother ride with no clicking distractions! 🚗💨
We love what we do, and it shows in everything we do and more. We share our knowledge, here on Ran When Parked.
- Best Exhaust Tip for Deep Sound: Top Picks for 2025 - May 3, 2025
- Best Clear Coat for Headlights Reviewed: Top Picks for Enhanced Visibility - May 3, 2025
- Best Car Coffee Table Books for Auto Enthusiasts - May 3, 2025