Clunking and Popping noises coming from Front drivers side

[Murz]

Hello, I bought a 2015 brand new Sonic RS back in September, and I occasionally would hear clunking noises coming from the front drivers side when ever I would take a turn or accelerate. A few months later, and the noise is much more pronounced now and occurs more often, as well as popping noises, it doesn't always do it, but taking a right turn can just about always reproduce it. The noise gets pretty annoying as it can get kind of loud sometimes.

Besides that, everything else has been fine, it rides fine as well, and I haven't noticed a change in how the car performs or handles, only the noise has gotten worse.

I have kept the car 100% stock so far, and have only put 3.5k miles on it, nor do I race-car it or drive off road. Not sure how the suspension would go bad that quickly.

Is this something that would be covered under warranty? Has anyone else got this? I bought this car so I wouldn't have to be throwing money into it for repairs (that's what my other cars are for).

Thanks!

 

[Palmaris]

http://www.sonicownersforum.com/forum/maintenance-care/8549-front-sway-bar-links-something-else.html

Check this out first

 

[Natesriv]

end links most likely (AKA swaybar links)... off to the dealership!

 

[aslap]

Sounds like something to replace...

..even before they go bad. Is it worthwhile just to get the steel ones that are available and change them out right up front? Do you have to re-align the car?

Thanks

Tony

 

[Natesriv]

no you don't the links don't change length over time or get shorter/longer.

Just need a torx bit and a wrench set... jack up the car, take wheel off, then use another jack (the one which came with the car) to jack up the lower control arm of the front suspension (takes the tension off swaybar link)... undo them with the torx bit and wrench. Reverse for reinstall...

 

[aslap]

Thanks!

Nate,

Thanks for the explanation. I know mine didn't even come with a spare and I haven't even checked to see if there is a jack in there. I guess I should check it out since I want to get a spare at some point buyt the dealer wanted $450 for the spare alone!

Tony

 

[Murz]

Thank you, this would explain it.

 

[Chevrolet Customer Care]

Hello, I bought a 2015 brand new Sonic RS back in September, and I occasionally would hear clunking noises coming from the front drivers side when ever I would take a turn or accelerate. A few months later, and the noise is much more pronounced now and occurs more often, as well as popping noises, it doesn't always do it, but taking a right turn can just about always reproduce it. The noise gets pretty annoying as it can get kind of loud sometimes.

Besides that, everything else has been fine, it rides fine as well, and I haven't noticed a change in how the car performs or handles, only the noise has gotten worse.

I have kept the car 100% stock so far, and have only put 3.5k miles on it, nor do I race-car it or drive off road. Not sure how the suspension would go bad that quickly.

Is this something that would be covered under warranty? Has anyone else got this? I bought this car so I wouldn't have to be throwing money into it for repairs (that's what my other cars are for).

Thanks!

Hello Murz,

I?m sorry to hear that you are experiencing concerns with your 2015 Sonic. I understand how frustrating this may be, especially with a newer vehicle. Your local certified Chevrolet dealership would be more than happy to diagnose your vehicle concern for you. If you have not already scheduled an appointment, please send us a private message with your VIN, contact information, current mileage, and the name of your dealer so we can reach out to them on your behalf.

Best,
Cecil J.
Chevrolet Customer Care

 

[RS360]

My sonic had this same issue. I changed the end links and the clunking went away. I used the Dorman end links.

If you are doing this yourself you will need a T-40 Torx and an 18mm open end ratchet if you have one otherwise an 18mm wrench will have to do. It will make the job much easier if you have the open end wrench. I had trouble getting the lower bolts off because of rust issues so spray some liquid wrench on the bolts and let it soak in for a little bit before starting.