Popping noise suspected cv axel assembly

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RebelNinja

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Hello to all, I have a question for the forum public. I'm new to the whole forum thing so bare with me if I go off tangent. There is a distinct popping noise coming from the front of the car. More predominantly the right side. I have noticed it only does it when i turn left or right or go over bumps. It almost sounds like someone popping their neck or hands under water, if you can imagine what that would sound like. My first initial thought was the CV Axel assembly. Regardless of which side it is, i plan on replacing both. My worst fear, however, is that it might be the wheel bearing. Has anyone had to deal with this issue and what did you have to do to fix it. Thank you in advance for your help.

2003 Pontiac Sunfire 2Dr. Coupe 2.2 Ecotech
 
Find an empty parking lot and put the car into a full lock to lock turn left and right at a slow speed, if you hear a rhythmic popping sound, it's usually the CV joints. If you do determine that is the problem, I recommend just replacing the shafts with reman units as they don't cost much more than just replacing the joints, and actually is a faster repair.
 
Could be suspension also. Have you checked for worn/loose steering and suspension parts? Bearings shouldn't pop, they growl or make a grinding noise.
 
Zimgxp said:
Could be suspension also. Have you checked for worn/loose steering and suspension parts? Bearings shouldn't pop, they growl or make a grinding noise.
Click to expand...

True, you could have worn strut bearing plates.
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I had, at one point in time, considered posible suspension problems but i have talked with a few mechanics that i trust not to just feed me bs and they seem to agree with cv axel assembly but i will definitely be looking at the suspension and steering alot more in depth. I do have some noticeable damage on the cv axel boot but no complete tears. Aside from tearing the boot off, is there a way to tell if i have a 3 bearing joint versus a 6 bearing? What are some signs of a bad strut bearing plate; rust, corrosion, etc.
 
To answer your other question... usually worn bearing plates will make a popping noise when you turn the wheel even if the car isn't rolling. If worn bad enough, you'll sometimes notice the steering wheel wanting to hang up at certain points even to the point of not returning fully to the neutral (straight ahead) position after making a turn
 
Interesting. Well i just got back from making a run to the store in the car and i didnt notice any sort of lack of return in the steering, but i will try it stationary and see what happens. And thank you for the link. Im hoping it is as simple as the strut plate for the sake of money.
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It is the cv axel assembly. It isnt in the worst condition but it is definitely coming from that. Had it up on a lift and could move the axel by hand a little. Thanks for the alternative perspective and advice.
 
even a new cv shaft will move in and out by hand just the nature of the joint.

could be the cv if u seen damage, but without seeing it...Like msmith said, strut mounts. Id put money on it to be honest, vary common problem. Check for a broken spring aswell, when the mounts have been bad for a long time they stress the spring and will snap a coil or two down from the top.
 
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