Popping when Turning Steering Wheel

[rjley]

Just started having an issue today with the jeep, (at 38k miles of course). Makes a popping sound when turning the steering wheel left or right, I’m about 30 minutes on the highway from work. I’m planning on looking into it this weekend but want to get an idea where to start.

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[Hootbro]

That is pretty loud. I would say start with ball joints, steering linkage or front track bar.

Since it happens when stationary, might want to have somebody turn the wheel for you while you are on the ground observing. Loud as it is, should be able to focus in real quick.

 

[kabookie10]

I just had a click/pop at full lock when moving forward a little or reversing. I diagnosed it to ball joints. I replaced them a week ago with Synergy HD ball joints and when taking mine out, they were pretty loose. It didn't have any up and down play in them but you could wiggle them around back and forth pretty easy. The synergy ball joints tightened things up and my pop went away. I have 56000 miles on my JT with 35's. I'd say its most likely your ball joints, track bar tie rod or drag link. If you have someone to turn the wheel for you while your under there thats going to be the best way to try to find it.

I know trying to track down these pops/clicks/noises is frustrating and it takes time.

 

[pcrawfordpt]

Best way to check is to have someone turn the wheel while your underneath looking and feeling for it. Most likely culprit is your track bar at the frame. Make sure is tight to spec. If so, and it’s tight to spec it could have wallowed out the hole in the frame. You can upgrade to a 9/16 grade 8…usually helps. If it’s not this, look at the bal joints. Jack it up about an inch on one side, place a pry bar under the tire, print up/down and again look for play. While here twist the tire side to side to see if the hubs are bad. Lastly, make sure your steering stabilizer clamp is tight and not slipping back and fourth.

 

[rjley]

Should I be worried about driving on it today and tomorrow?

 

[Hootbro]

Should I be worried about driving on it today and tomorrow?

Without even knowing exact root cause, how does one even predict that?

For the blissfully ignorant, you could probably drive years with issue. Those that know better and rely on their vehicle, probably break in your driveway tomorrow is usually how things go.

 

[OldButStillJeeping]

Wow. That is loud!

Get it looked into ASAP. @Hootbro is probably right. But steering is nothing to delay getting repaired.

I would guess track bar or ball joints too. But if it is your steering column... Not Good. I wouldn't drive it on the highway or at high speeds. In fact, I would tow it home unless I could determine the issue.

Please let us know the culprit.

 

[OldButStillJeeping]

Should I be worried about driving on it today and tomorrow?

I would be worried.

 

[Marob419]

Mine is more clunky sound not that loud

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