why does my Volkswagen Tiguan First Generation (2007-2018) make a clicking sound when turning

Volkswagen Tiguan First Generation (2007-2018)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

613 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the clicking sound when turning in Volkswagen Tiguan. 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 the vehicle.
•Ensure the vehicle is securely supported before performing any repairs.

Symptoms

•Clicking noise when turning the steering wheel
•Noise increases with sharper turns
•Vibration felt through the steering wheel
•Decreased steering responsiveness
•Possible grinding noise in conjunction with clicking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the CV joints for wear or damage by visually examining the boots for tears or leaking grease.
2
Check the power steering fluid level and condition; top up or replace if low or contaminated.
3
Raise the front of the vehicle on jack stands and manually rotate the wheels to listen for abnormal noises.
4
Inspect the suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, and control arms) for play or damage.
5
Test the steering rack for any signs of wear or failure by turning the steering wheel from side to side while stationary.

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

•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Ratchet
•Pry bar
•Ball joint separator
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•CV joint/axle (if damaged)
•Ball joints or tie rods (if worn)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the CV joints for wear or damage by visually examining the boots for tears or leaking grease.
2
Check the power steering fluid level and condition; top up or replace if low or contaminated.
3
Raise the front of the vehicle on jack stands and manually rotate the wheels to listen for abnormal noises.
4
Inspect the suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, and control arms) for play or damage.
5
Test the steering rack for any signs of wear or failure by turning the steering wheel from side to side while stationary.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety while working.

2. Inspect and Replace CV Joints

Remove Wheels
- Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts.
- Remove the front wheels to gain access to the CV joints.
Inspect CV Joints
- Examine the outer and inner CV joints for any visible damage or grease leakage.
- If damaged, proceed to the next step to replace.
Remove CV Axle
- Remove the retaining bolt from the hub assembly using a socket and ratchet.
- Disconnect the lower control arm if necessary to allow for axle removal.
- Pull the CV axle out of the transmission and hub assembly.
Install New CV Axle
- Insert the new CV axle into the transmission and hub assembly.
- Reattach the lower control arm if it was removed.
- Torque the hub assembly bolt to the manufacturer’s specification (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs).

3. Inspect and Repair Suspension Components

Check for Play
- With the vehicle still on jack stands, use a pry bar to check for play in ball joints and tie rods.
- If any component is loose, remove and replace it.
Replace Components if Necessary
- Remove the old ball joint or tie rod using a ball joint separator or tie rod puller.
- Install the new part and torque to specifications (usually around 30-50 ft-lbs depending on the component).

4. Reassemble and Test

Reinstall Wheels
- Place the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (typically around 80-100 ft-lbs).
Reconnect Battery
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.