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Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander making a clicking sound when turning? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander making a clicking sound when turning?

Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander making a clicking sound when turning?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
2-4 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
731 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the clicking sound when turning in a 2020 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, tools required, and repair instructions.

Affected Component
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension components, steering system
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Symptoms

  • •A distinct clicking or popping noise occurs when the vehicle is turning.
  • •The noise may vary in volume or frequency depending on the sharpness of the turn.
  • •Sound may be more noticeable at lower speeds.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

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
  • •Pry bar
  • •Mechanic's stethoscope (optional)
  • •Flashlight
  • •Creeper or mechanic’s mat

Additional Information

Affected Component
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension components, steering system
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
7 items

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Diagnosis of Clicking Sound When Turning in a 2020 Toyota Highlander

Symptoms:

  • A distinct clicking or popping noise occurs when the vehicle is turning.
  • The noise may vary in volume or frequency depending on the sharpness of the turn.
  • Sound may be more noticeable at lower speeds.

Potential Causes:

  1. Worn or damaged CV (Constant Velocity) joints.
  2. Issues with wheel bearings.
  3. Loose or damaged suspension components.
  4. Problems with the steering system.
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Tools Required:

  • Jack and jack stands
  • Torque wrench
  • Socket set
  • Pry bar
  • Mechanic's stethoscope (optional)
  • Flashlight
  • Creeper or mechanic’s mat

Step 1: Visual Inspection

  1. Park the Vehicle Safely: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and switch off the engine.
  2. Inspect the Wheels and Tires: Look for any obvious damage or irregular wear on the tires.
  3. Check CV Boots: Inspect the CV joint boots for tears or grease leaks. If the boots are damaged, dirt can enter the joint and lead to failure.
  4. Examine Suspension Components: Look for any loose or damaged components such as control arms, tie rods, and bushings.

Step 2: Raise the Vehicle

  1. Jack Up the Front of the Vehicle: Use a hydraulic jack to lift the front of the Highlander, and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Remove Front Wheels: Using a socket set, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels for better access.

Step 3: Inspect CV Joints

  1. Rotate the Wheels: Manually turn the front wheels while observing the CV joints and listen for any noises.
  2. Check for Play: Grasp the CV joint and try to move it in and out. If there’s noticeable play, it may indicate wear.
  3. Check Inner and Outer CV Joints: Inspect both inner and outer CV joints for any signs of damage or excessive play.

Step 4: Wheel Bearings Inspection

  1. Check for Roughness: Spin the wheel hub by hand and listen for any grinding or roughness which may indicate a failing wheel bearing.
  2. Wiggle Test: With the wheel hub supported, grab the top and bottom of the wheel and try to wiggle it. Any movement may indicate a bad wheel bearing.

Step 5: Suspension and Steering Components

  1. Inspect Ball Joints and Tie Rods: Look for any signs of wear or play in these components. Use a pry bar to check for movement.
  2. Check the Power Steering System: Ensure there are no leaks, and the fluid level is adequate. Check for any abnormal noises from the steering rack.
Repair Instructions

If CV Joints are Worn:

  1. Remove the Axle:

    • Remove the axle nut using a socket.
    • Disconnect any retaining clips or bolts holding the axle in place.
    • Slide the axle out of the hub and transmission.

  2. Install New CV Joint or Axle:

    • If replacing the entire axle, position the new axle into the hub and transmission.
    • Reinstall any retaining clips or bolts.
    • Torque the axle nut to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 140 ft-lbs for Toyota vehicles).

  3. Reassemble:

    • Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.
    • Ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification.

If Wheel Bearings are Failing:

  1. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor:

    • Unbolt the brake caliper and support it (do not hang it by the brake line).
    • Remove the brake rotor.

  2. Remove the Wheel Hub Assembly:

    • Disconnect any ABS sensor wires if applicable.
    • Unbolt the hub assembly from the steering knuckle.

  3. Install New Wheel Bearing:

    • Press the new bearing into the hub assembly (may require a press).
    • Reassemble the hub to the steering knuckle and reinstall the rotor and caliper.

If Suspension Components are Loose:

  1. Replace Worn Components:
    • Remove the old component (e.g., ball joint, control arm).
    • Install the new component and torque to specifications.
Final Steps
  1. Test Drive: After repairs, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the clicking sound is resolved.
  2. Check for Any Warning Lights: Ensure there are no warning lights on the dashboard after the repair.
Conclusion

If the clicking noise persists after these checks, it may be beneficial to consult with a professional technician for further diagnosis or to perform more specialized tests.