What should I do if my 2015 Volvo XC60 has a clicking noise when turning?

Volvo XC60 First Generation (2008-2017)

Error Codes

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

657 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair a clicking noise when turning in a 2015 Volvo XC60, including symptoms, potential causes, and step-by-step repair instructions.

Affected Component

CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension components, brakes

Symptoms

•A clicking or popping noise from the front wheels when turning.
•Noise may increase in volume or frequency with sharper turns.
•Possible vibration felt in the steering wheel.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety goggles and gloves.
2
Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3
Inspect CV Joints: Examine the outer CV joints for any torn boots or visible wear. Check the inner CV joints by removing the axle from the hub.
4
Check Wheel Bearings: Grab the wheel at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock it back and forth. Any play indicates a potential wheel bearing issue.
5
Look for Loose Components: Inspect suspension components (control arms, tie rods, sway bar links) for damage or looseness.
6
Brake Inspection: Check for any loose calipers or warped rotors that could contribute to noise.
7
Perform a Test Drive: With the vehicle still in the air, have an assistant spin the wheels while you listen for the noise. If no noise is present, perform a slow-speed test drive.
8
Listen for Noise: Pay attention to the clicking noise when making turns—this helps isolate the problem further.

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
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•Rubber mallet
•CV joint grease (if applicable)
•Replacement parts (if necessary)
•Safety goggles and gloves

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Diagnosing and Repairing a Clicking Noise When Turning in a 2015 Volvo XC60

Potential Causes

Worn CV joints.
Damaged wheel bearings.
Loose or damaged suspension components.
Issues with the brakes (e.g., loose caliper).

Tools Required

Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Socket set
Torque wrench
Pry bar
Rubber mallet
CV joint grease (if applicable)
Replacement parts (if necessary)
Safety goggles and gloves

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and wear safety goggles and gloves.
Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Inspect CV Joints: Examine the outer CV joints for any torn boots or visible wear. Check the inner CV joints by removing the axle from the hub.
Check Wheel Bearings: Grab the wheel at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock it back and forth. Any play indicates a potential wheel bearing issue.
Look for Loose Components: Inspect suspension components (control arms, tie rods, sway bar links) for damage or looseness.
Brake Inspection: Check for any loose calipers or warped rotors that could contribute to noise.

Step 2: Test Drive

Perform a Test Drive: With the vehicle still in the air, have an assistant spin the wheels while you listen for the noise. If no noise is present, perform a slow-speed test drive.
Listen for Noise: Pay attention to the clicking noise when making turns—this helps isolate the problem further.

Repair Instructions

Repair CV Joints

Remove the Wheel: Use a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Remove the Axle: Remove any components obstructing the axle, such as the brake caliper and rotor. Mark and disconnect any sensors if necessary.
Replace CV Joint: If the CV joint is damaged:
- Remove the retaining clip and pull the CV joint off the axle.
- Clean the axle and install a new CV joint with fresh grease.
- Reassemble all components in reverse order, ensuring to torque bolts to factory specifications.

Repair Wheel Bearings

Remove the Wheel and Brake Assembly: As before, remove the wheel, brake caliper, and rotor to access the hub assembly.
Remove Old Bearings: Use a bearing puller to remove the old wheel bearings from the hub if they are damaged.
Install New Bearings: Press in new wheel bearings, ensuring they're seated properly. Reassemble the hub assembly, brake components, and wheel.

Check Suspension Components

Inspect and Replace: If any suspension components are worn or damaged, replace them as necessary. This may include control arms, tie rods, or sway bar links.
Reassemble: Ensure all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Brake Inspection

Secure the Brake Caliper: If the caliper is loose, ensure that it is properly secured with bolts.
Replace Any Worn Parts: If brake pads or rotors are worn, replace them as necessary.

Final Steps

Reassemble Everything: Once all repairs are complete, reassemble all parts and ensure everything is secure.
Lower the Vehicle: Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle.
Test Drive Again: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the clicking noise has been resolved.

Conclusion

If the clicking noise persists after these diagnostics and repairs, further investigation may be necessary, potentially involving more in-depth examination of the steering system or differential, and consulting with a professional automotive technician may be advisable. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications and repair procedures.