Quick Answer
A clicking noise when turning at low speed is usually caused by a worn CV joint or damaged driveshaft components. It often becomes more noticeable during full steering lock and should be checked early to avoid failure.
Who This Is For (And Why It Matters)
If you’re a driver in London noticing a clicking or ticking sound when turning into a parking space or navigating tight streets, this guide is for you. That small noise might seem harmless at first – but it often signals wear in critical drivetrain components. Left unchecked, it can lead to breakdowns, loss of control, or expensive repairs. At Auto King, we regularly diagnose these issues early, helping drivers avoid bigger problems and stay safe on the road.
What Does a Clicking Noise When Turning Mean?
Here’s the thing – cars don’t make noise without a reason.
A clicking sound at low speeds, especially during sharp turns, usually points to a problem with components that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. These parts are constantly under stress when you steer, accelerate, and manoeuvre in tight spaces.
The most common culprit? The CV joint.
If the sound becomes heavier or more pronounced, like a clunking noise when turning the steering wheel, it may point to worn suspension or steering components rather than a CV joint issue.
Most Common Causes of Clicking Noise When Turning
1. Worn CV Joint (Primary Cause)
This is by far the most frequent reason – especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles.
The outer CV (constant velocity) joint allows your wheels to receive power while turning. Over time, it wears out due to constant movement and stress.
Signs it’s failing:
- Clicking noise when turning sharply
- Louder sound during acceleration
- Noise mainly from one side
Let’s be real – once a CV joint starts clicking, it’s already on its way out.
2. Damaged CV Boot (Leaking Grease)
The CV joint is protected by a rubber boot filled with grease. If this boot tears:
- Grease leaks out
- Dirt and debris get in
- The joint wears out quickly
Quick check:
Look behind your front wheels. If you see grease splattered around the suspension, that’s a strong sign of a torn CV boot.
3. Loose Wheel Nuts (Simple but Dangerous)
This one’s often overlooked – but it’s a quick win.
Loose wheel nuts can create a clicking or knocking sound when turning or driving slowly.
Why it matters:
- It’s a serious safety risk
- Can lead to wheel instability
If you’ve recently had tyre work done, this should be the first thing you check.
4. Worn Drive Shaft Components
The driveshaft connects your transmission to the wheels. If any part of it becomes worn or damaged, it can cause:
- Clicking or clunking sounds
- Vibrations during turns
- Uneven power delivery
This tends to show up more in higher-mileage vehicles or those frequently driven in stop-start London traffic.
If the clicking noise is linked to worn steering or suspension components, it’s worth considering professional suspension and steering repairs in Bethnal Green to ensure your vehicle remains safe and responsive on the road.
5. Low Lubrication in Joints
Some joints rely on proper lubrication to function smoothly. When lubrication is low:
- Friction increases
- Components wear faster
- Noise develops under stress (like turning)
This is less common than CV joint failure – but still worth checking during a full inspection.
If the sound changes from clicking while turning to a knocking noise when driving over bumps, it could indicate worn suspension components rather than a drivetrain issue.
How to Diagnose the Problem (Before It Gets Worse)
If you’re hearing a clicking noise, here’s how to narrow it down:
Quick At-Home Checks:
- Turn the wheel fully left and right in a quiet area
- Listen for clicking during slow movement
- Check for grease near the wheels
- Inspect wheel nuts for tightness
What to Watch For:
- Noise gets louder when accelerating while turning
- Clicking only happens on one side
- Sound appears mainly at low speeds
If you notice these signs, it’s time to get it checked professionally.
How to Fix Clicking Noise When Turning
Replace the CV Axle (Most Common Fix)
In most cases, the best solution is replacing the entire CV axle assembly.
Why?
- More cost-effective than repairing individual parts
- Ensures long-term reliability
- Faster installation
Replace CV Boot (If Caught Early)
If the issue is just a torn boot and the joint hasn’t failed yet:
- Replace the boot
- Repack grease
- Prevent further damage
Timing matters here – delay it, and you’ll need a full axle replacement.
Tighten or Replace Wheel Components
If the issue is simpler:
- Tighten wheel nuts
- Replace worn tie rods or suspension parts
- Inspect wheel bearings
Different Types of Noises When Turning the Steering Wheel
Not all steering noises are the same – and the type of sound can tell you a lot about the problem. A clicking noise often points to a worn CV joint, while a clunking sound may suggest loose suspension or steering components. If you hear a grinding noise, it could indicate worn bearings or severe joint damage, and a whining sound is usually linked to low power steering fluid or pump issues. Paying attention to these differences helps narrow down the cause quickly and prevents unnecessary repairs. If you notice a creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, it’s often linked to dry or worn suspension bushes or top mounts rather than drivetrain components like CV joints. Understanding different vehicle sounds can make diagnosing problems much easier, which is why our guide on car noises explained helps drivers identify what various clicking, clunking, grinding, and whining sounds usually mean.
When Should You Be Concerned?
A slight click today can turn into a complete failure tomorrow.
If a CV joint fails completely:
- You could lose drive to the wheel
- The car may become undriveable
- It can leave you stranded unexpectedly
In a busy city like London, that’s the last thing you want – especially in traffic or tight junctions.
If you’re also noticing issues with handling alongside the noise, such as your car pulling to one side, it could point to a deeper steering or alignment problem that shouldn’t be ignored.
Professional Help: When to Call Auto King
If this feels like guesswork, you’re not alone.
At Auto King, we deal with clicking and steering-related issues daily across London. Our technicians don’t just replace parts blindly – we diagnose the exact cause and fix it properly the first time.
If your vehicle is showing signs of drivetrain or steering issues, it’s worth booking a proper inspection. You can also explore our suspension and steering repairs in Bethnal Green for a deeper look at related services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my car clicking at low speeds?
It’s usually caused by a worn CV joint, especially when turning. Other causes include loose wheel nuts or worn suspension parts.
How do I fix a clicking CV joint?
The most effective fix is replacing the CV axle assembly. In early stages, replacing the CV boot may be enough.
Is it safe to drive with a clicking noise when turning?
Not for long. It may still drive fine initially, but the issue can worsen quickly and lead to failure.
Can low power steering fluid cause clicking?
Rarely. It’s more likely to cause whining noises, but it’s still worth checking as part of a full inspection.
Final Thoughts
A clicking noise when turning at low speed isn’t something to ignore – it’s your car warning you early.
Most of the time, it comes down to a worn CV joint or a damaged boot. Catch it early, and the fix is manageable. Leave it too long, and it turns into a bigger, more expensive problem.
Book an appointment online or Call us at 020 3877 6667