Why does my car clunk over bumps?

What it usually is

• Sway bar end linksmost common

  Rattle over small bumps, one side at a time. Cheap fix.

  Fix: Sway Bar Links & Bushings →
• Strut mount or worn strutcommon

  Deeper clunk, bounciness, sometimes a knock when turning the wheel in place.

  Fix: Shocks & Struts →
• Ball joint or control arm bushingcommon

  Clunk plus wandering steering.

  Fix: Control Arms & Ball Joints →
• Loose exhaust or heat shieldcommon

  Tinny rattle rather than a thud.

  Fix: Exhaust Leak & Manifold Repair →
• Collapsed engine mountless common

  Clunk when accelerating or shifting rather than over bumps.

  Fix: Engine & Transmission Mount Replacement →

What to do right now

1. Note where the noise is: front, rear, left, right.
2. Push down on each corner — excessive bounce means struts.
3. Schedule an inspection. Most clunks are a cheap fix if caught early.

How a mobile mechanic handles it

We come to where the car is — that's the whole point when it's a clunking noise over bumps situation. We diagnose with a professional scan tool and proper testing, tell you what's wrong and what it costs, and fix it on site when parts allow. Most of these are single-visit repairs in your driveway.