Why does my 2020 Highlander make a clunking sound when going over bumps?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

626 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix clunking sounds in your 2020 Toyota Highlander with our step-by-step guide.

Affected Component

suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

Symptoms

•Clunking noise heard when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
•Noise may vary in intensity depending on the size of the bump.
•Possible rattling noises when driving over rough roads.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Check: Inspect undercarriage for damage.
2
Listen for Noises: Note frequency and conditions of the noise.
3
Raise the Vehicle: Use jack and secure with jack stands.
4
Examine Struts/Shocks: Check for leaks or damage.
5
Inspect Bushings: Check control arm bushings for wear.
6
Inspect Sway Bar Links: Look for damage or looseness.
7
Examine Exhaust System: Check for loose hangers or brackets.
8
Inspect Heat Shields: Look for rust or damage.

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

•Jack and jack stands
•Torque wrench
•Socket set (metric)
•Pry bar
•Rubber mallet
•Creeper or mechanic’s pad
•Inspection mirror
•Flashlight

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Check: Inspect undercarriage for damage.
2
Listen for Noises: Note frequency and conditions of the noise.
3
Raise the Vehicle: Use jack and secure with jack stands.
4
Examine Struts/Shocks: Check for leaks or damage.
5
Inspect Bushings: Check control arm bushings for wear.
6
Inspect Sway Bar Links: Look for damage or looseness.
7
Examine Exhaust System: Check for loose hangers or brackets.
8
Inspect Heat Shields: Look for rust or damage.

Solution

Problem Diagnosis: Clunking Sound Over Bumps in a 2020 Toyota Highlander

Potential Causes:

Worn or damaged suspension components (e.g., struts, shocks, bushings).
Loose or damaged exhaust components.
Loose or damaged heat shields.
Issues with the sway bar links or control arms.

Tools Required:

Jack and jack stands
Torque wrench
Socket set (metric)
Pry bar
Rubber mallet
Creeper or mechanic’s pad
Inspection mirror
Flashlight

Step 1: Preliminary Inspection

Visual Check: Begin by visually inspecting the undercarriage for any obvious signs of damage. Look for:
- Oil leaks around the struts or shocks.
- Broken or missing components.
- Loose heat shields or exhaust parts.
Listen for Noises: While driving, note the frequency and conditions under which the noise occurs. This can help narrow down potential issues.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

Raise the Vehicle: Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Secure the Vehicle: Ensure that the vehicle is stable before crawling underneath.

Step 3: Inspect Suspension Components

Examine Struts/Shocks:
- Look for leaks or damage.
- Check for any physical play in the strut mounts.
- Use a pry bar to check for excessive movement in the upper and lower mount areas.
Check Bushings:
- Inspect control arm bushings for wear. Worn bushings can cause a clunking noise.
- Use the pry bar to apply pressure to the control arms to check for play.
Sway Bar Links:
- Inspect the sway bar links for damage or looseness.
- Wiggle the links to see if there is excessive play.

Step 4: Inspect Exhaust Components

Examine Exhaust System:
- Check for any loose hangers or brackets that could be causing the noise.
- Ensure the exhaust pipes are not making contact with the vehicle’s body or suspension components.
Heat Shields:
- Inspect the heat shields for rust or damage. A loose heat shield can create clunking sounds.

Repair Instructions

Step 5: Handle Identified Issues

Replace Worn Struts/Shocks:
- Tools: Socket set, torque wrench, jack stands.
- Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.
- Unbolt the strut from the lower control arm and top mount.
- Install the new strut and torque to specifications.
Replace Worn Bushings:
- Tools: Socket set, pry bar, bushing removal tool (if necessary).
- Remove the control arm or component housing the bushings.
- Use a bushing removal tool to replace worn bushings.
- Reassemble and torque to specifications.
Fix Sway Bar Links:
- Tools: Socket set, torque wrench.
- Remove the sway bar link from the sway bar and lower control arm.
- Install new sway bar links and torque to specifications.
Secure Exhaust Components:
- Tools: Socket set.
- Tighten any loose exhaust hangers or brackets. Replace damaged components as necessary.
Secure Loose Heat Shields:
- Tools: Socket set or screws.
- Tighten or replace any missing fasteners for the heat shield.

Step 6: Final Checks

Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Test Drive: Conduct a test drive to confirm the noise has been resolved. Drive over similar bumps to verify the fix.

Conclusion

If the clunking noise persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult with a professional technician for a more in-depth diagnosis, as other issues like frame damage or more complex suspension problems might be present.