Clunking noises when I wiggle the steering?!

[Patrick_g46]

I noticed today that when I was dirving and went over a speed bump or was turning that there was a small clunk noise, so i pulled over and wiggled the wheel from left to right and there was a series of small clunks! Any ideas what this could be?

Patrick

[Wobba]

Check wheel bolts first

Worn balljoints

Wheel bearings

Just take the wheel off and check all the bushes and balljoints, along with the bolts on the suspension strut. I cant remember which one it is but sideways (rather than up and down) wiggling is either wheel bearing or one of the above.

[Patrick_g46]

how can i check the balljoints for wear?

[Wobba]

I think for wishbone you jack car up and hold wheel at 12-6 and wiggle it. Play means its worn...may be wrong...I just replace the lot when I get a car to be sure.

[schakal]

assuming you wiggled the wheel with the side on the ground
my first thought would be wheel bolts as well especially
if you have been driving hard through corners or the bolts have
recently been fitted by a muppet .