Strange clunk from front driver side area

I recently started noticing an audible clunk from what seems to be my front driver's side wheel area. It doesn't take anything extreme to make it happen - it's observable during normal driving over slight bumps (driveways, dips in road, etc). It's a new a noticeable thing. I've climbed all around and can't find anything that appears loose, or shiny, or out of sorts. I'm going to take it into the dealer soon, but figured I'd check in here for ideas. My best bet is that something is up with the coil-over or maybe the sway bar? Whatever it is, it obviously takes more force to make it happen than I can exert with my arms to find it. I haven't been able to feel anything different in the ride, but it's enough of a clunk to make me worry. The front end is all stock with the exception of being on middle perch (has been for a few years). This is a 2012 Screw with 38,000 miles. It hasn't been on any recent wheeling trips and this wasn't gradual. It just started the other day.

Subbed, I have it too. But I have 3.0's and aftermarket UCA. I hear it on full turn lock too at slow speeds.

Sounds like a bad ball joint/bushing take it to your local shop.

t_j said:

Sounds like a bad ball joint/bushing take it to your local shop.

Click to expand...

That has crossed my mind. My past experienced with ball joints has been a bit more drastic symptom, but it won't shock me. One interesting question will be about my warranty. I have the extended warranty through Ford (factory obviously expired). Think that'll cover the ball joint if that's the case?

Dane said:

That has crossed my mind. My past experienced with ball joints has been a bit more drastic symptom, but it won't shock me. One interesting question will be about my warranty. I have the extended warranty through Ford (factory obviously expired). Think that'll cover the ball joint if that's the case?

Click to expand...

Should do if you have the good one!

My caster is at around 7.0 due to the aftermarket UCA's. Could the increased angle cause stress on ball joints to cause the clunking?

Dane said:

That has crossed my mind. My past experienced with ball joints has been a bit more drastic symptom, but it won't shock me. One interesting question will be about my warranty. I have the extended warranty through Ford (factory obviously expired). Think that'll cover the ball joint if that's the case?

Click to expand...

Which ESP do you have, Dane? Ball joints are listed under the PremiumCARE warranty, but you'll want to verify coverage with your service manager. You can check out the specifics of all ESPs here: Extended Vehicle Service & Protection Plans | Service & Maintenance | Official Ford Owner Site Give me a shout if you need any assistance from my neck of the woods.

Crystal

I'm with @t_j on this one. I had a clunk/loose rattle on the passenger side. Only after spotting grease at the ball joint, did I take it into Ford. Turns out the boot somehow tore open, and the UCA needed to be replaced. Had it not been for the extended warranty, I would've gone aftermarket.

puddle hunter said:

I'm with @t_j on this one. I had a clunk/loose rattle on the passenger side. Only after spotting grease at the ball joint, did I take it into Ford. Turns out the boot somehow tore open, and the UCA needed to be replaced. Had it not been for the extended warranty, I would've gone aftermarket.

Click to expand...

Interestingly enough, that side axle shaft/cv (driver's side in my case) has been replaced twice under warranty for breaking.

Truck goes into the dealer today. I'll report back. They say it'll likely be covered by warranty, but obviously can't promise that until they take a look.