Mystery clunk/pop

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by KyleW, Jan 26, 2025.

  1. KyleW

    KyleW New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 26, 2025
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    Location:
    Kansas City
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    II
    I'm trying to track down a mystery clunk/pop in the driver's front side of my 2011 Prius. It only happens intermittently so it's been very hard to isolate. It's a single metallic clunk/pop that sounds like something is slightly shifting. It does not happen unless the car is moving so I can't replicate it in the garage. It primarily happens when I'm going 10-20mph and turn left (anywhere from a slight left steering input to a full left turn). It's more pronounced when it's cold outside.

    Thus far I've replaced (on both front sides):
    • Strut assembly (with pre-assembled KYB quickstrut assembly)
    • Sway bar end links
    • Wheel bearings
    • Inner and outer tie rod ends
    • Lower ball joints
    • CV axles
    I've confirmed:
    • Sway bar bushings are good and there is no play
    • There is no play when grabbing and wiggling the tire at 3 & 9 or 6 & 12
    • There is no play in lower ball joint
    • There is no play in the front subframe connection to the body
    • Double checked everything is tight and torqued to spec
    Nothing seems to be moving even when I put pressure on it with a long pry bar.

    I'm going crazy here. Any ideas what it could be?