A clunking sound from the front suspension over bumps is often due to worn bushings or ball joints. Learn what to check and whether it’s safe to keep driving.
What’s That Clunk? Common Causes
If your BYD Han is sounding like a percussion section every time you hit a pothole or speed bump, it’s most likely a worn mechanical part in the front suspension. The Han’s front suspension uses a MacPherson strut design, and the usual suspects for a metallic or dull clunk are:
- Sway bar end links – These small links connect the sway bar to the control arm. When the ball joint inside wears out, you’ll hear a distinct clunk when one wheel hits a bump.
- Control arm bushings – The lower control arm has rubber or polyurethane bushings at the pivot points. Over time they crack, split, or lose their compliance, allowing metal-on-metal contact.
- Strut mount or upper bearing – A worn strut mount can cause a clunk, especially when turning and hitting a bump at the same time.
- Ball joints – Lower ball joints are a common wear item. If they develop play, you’ll feel a clunk and possibly a slight steering wobble.
