why is my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) making a clicking noise when turning

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

511 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix clicking noise when turning in a Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Clicking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel
•Noise increases with the speed of the vehicle
•Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle body during turns
•Potential loss of steering responsiveness
•Uneven tire wear (if observed over time)

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the CV joints for any visible damage or excessive play.
2
Check the front wheel bearings for wear or damage.
3
Examine the suspension components, including control arms and bushings, for wear or damage.
4
Test drive the vehicle and replicate the noise to identify its source more accurately.
5
Inspect the tires for any irregular wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Socket set
•Jack stands
•Torque wrench
•Bearing puller

Parts Required

•CV joints (if damaged)
•Wheel bearings (if worn)
•Suspension components (if required)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the CV joints for any visible damage or excessive play.
2
Check the front wheel bearings for wear or damage.
3
Examine the suspension components, including control arms and bushings, for wear or damage.
4
Test drive the vehicle and replicate the noise to identify its source more accurately.
5
Inspect the tires for any irregular wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety.

2. Inspect and Replace CV Joints

Tools Required: Socket set, jack stands, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the front wheels to gain access to the CV joints.
3. Inspect the CV boots for tears or leaking grease; if damaged, replace the CV joint.
4. If replacing, remove the axle nut and the CV joint from the hub.
5. Install the new CV joint, ensuring that it is properly seated. Reinstall the axle nut to the manufacturer’s torque specification.

3. Check and Replace Wheel Bearings

Tools Required: Bearing puller, socket set, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. While the wheels are off, spin the wheel hub to check for smooth operation.
2. If rough or noisy, remove the hub assembly.
3. Replace the wheel bearings if worn or damaged and reassemble the hub.

4. Inspect Suspension Components

Tools Required: Socket set, pry bar, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Visually inspect control arms, bushings, and struts for signs of wear or damage.
2. Use a pry bar to check for any excessive play in the control arms.
3. Replace any worn or damaged suspension components as necessary, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specifications.