Why does my 2009 Volvo XC60 make a clicking noise when turning?

Volvo XC60 First Generation (2008-2017)

Error Codes

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

651 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the clicking noise when turning in your 2009 Volvo XC60. Follow our step-by-step guide to identify the issue and perform necessary repairs.

Affected Component

CV joints, suspension components, wheel bearings, brake components

Symptoms

•A distinct clicking or popping noise occurs when turning the steering wheel.
•The noise may vary in intensity based on the sharpness of the turn.
•The vehicle may exhibit no other performance issues; however, it could feel like there's extra resistance or looseness in the steering.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
2
Inspect the CV joints for torn boots or grease leakage. Look for any visible damage.
3
Check the suspension components for wear, play, or damage. Move the control arms and sway bar links by hand to feel for any play.
4
Inspect brake components for looseness or wear.
5
With the vehicle still lifted, rotate the front wheels by hand while turning them left and right to replicate the noise.
6
Listen closely for clicking sounds from the CV joint area.
7
With a pry bar, check for play in the ball joints and tie rods.
8
Use a mechanic’s stethoscope to listen for noise from wheel bearings while spinning the wheel.
9
Inspect brake calipers and pads for wear or looseness.

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
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•CV boot clamp pliers
•Mechanic’s stethoscope (optional)
•Wheel chocks
•Safety glasses and gloves

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
2
Inspect the CV joints for torn boots or grease leakage. Look for any visible damage.
3
Check the suspension components for wear, play, or damage. Move the control arms and sway bar links by hand to feel for any play.
4
Inspect brake components for looseness or wear.
5
With the vehicle still lifted, rotate the front wheels by hand while turning them left and right to replicate the noise.
6
Listen closely for clicking sounds from the CV joint area.
7
With a pry bar, check for play in the ball joints and tie rods.
8
Use a mechanic’s stethoscope to listen for noise from wheel bearings while spinning the wheel.
9
Inspect brake calipers and pads for wear or looseness.

Solution

Problem Diagnosis: Clicking Noise When Turning in a 2009 Volvo XC60

Possible Causes

Worn CV Joints: The most common reason for clicking noises during turns, especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Loose or Damaged Suspension Components: Includes control arms, tie rods, or sway bar links.
Wheel Bearings: Worn wheel bearings may produce noise when under load during turns.
Brake Components: Loose or damaged brake components can also create similar sounds.
Differential Issues: In some cases, differential problems could lead to unusual noises during turns.

Tools Required

Jack and jack stands
Socket set
Torque wrench
Pry bar
CV boot clamp pliers
Mechanic’s stethoscope (optional)
Wheel chocks
Safety glasses and gloves

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Visual Inspection:
- Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
- Inspect the CV joints for torn boots or grease leakage. Look for any visible damage.
- Check the suspension components for wear, play, or damage. Move the control arms and sway bar links by hand to feel for any play.
- Inspect brake components for looseness or wear.
CV Joint Test:
- With the vehicle still lifted, rotate the front wheels by hand while turning them left and right to replicate the noise.
- Listen closely for clicking sounds from the CV joint area. If the sound is prominent during these movements, the CV joints are likely the source.
Suspension Component Check:
- With a pry bar, check for play in the ball joints and tie rods. If any component feels loose or has excessive play, it may need replacement.
- Use a mechanic’s stethoscope (if available) to listen for noise from wheel bearings while spinning the wheel.
Brake Component Check:
- Inspect brake calipers and pads for wear or looseness. Ensure all components are secured properly.

Repair Instructions

If CV Joints are Worn

Remove the Wheel:
- Loosen lug nuts and remove the front wheel.
Disconnect the CV Axle:
- Remove the cotter pin and nut from the hub.
- Use a ball joint separator tool to disconnect the lower control arm from the knuckle.
- Pull the axle out of the hub and remove it from the transmission side.
Replace the CV Joint:
- If only the CV joint is worn, you can replace just the joint. If the entire axle is damaged, replace the axle assembly.
- Install the new CV joint or axle in reverse order of removal. Ensure you use new CV boot clamps.
Reassemble:
- Reattach the control arm to the knuckle and tighten to manufacturer specifications.
- Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.

If Suspension Components are Worn

Identify the Worn Part:
- Replace any component that has excessive play or visible damage.
Remove and Replace:
- Follow the manufacturer’s specifications for removal and installation of the affected suspension components.
Reassemble:
- Ensure all bolts are torqued to specifications and recheck the wheel alignment if suspension components are replaced.

Final Steps

Test Drive: After repairing, take the vehicle for a low-speed test drive to check if the noise persists during turns.
Inspect: Ensure everything is secure and no other noises are present.

Conclusion

By following these diagnostic steps and repair instructions, you should be able to identify and resolve the clicking noise when turning in your 2009 Volvo XC60. If the issue persists after these repairs, consider consulting a professional technician for further diagnosis.