Clunking Noise When Braking

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Different brake noises have different causes within the brake system. Being able to properly identify the noise and know what is causing it will help you determine a proper solution. In the third video of our brake noise series, we talk about how a clunking or thumping noise heard during braking isn't normally related to the brake system.

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A clunking or thumping noise is often confused as a problem with the brake system because you typically hear it when you hit the brake pedal. However, chances are the problem lies elsewhere in the vehicle.

Suspension Issue

The problem most likely lies in the suspension of your vehicle. When a shock or strut goes bad, you may hear a thumping or clunking noise when you brake. This might also be accompanied by your vehicle nose-diving during braking. That is a key indicator that there is a problem with your suspension.

Brake Cable

Another explanation may be the brake cable being loose or having too much slack in its brackets. If this happens, you may hear a thumping noise of the cable hitting against your vehicle when you brake.

Loose Caliper Bracket Mounting Bolt

A loose mounting bolt that holds the caliper bracket to the vehicle may be the issue. This is an uncommon problem, but it may be the cause of a thumping or clunking noise.