5 Causes Driveshaft Clunk When Accelerating or Decelerating

By | January 21, 2023

Driveshaft Clunk When Accelerating or Decelerating
If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle and the driveshaft is making a clunking noise, it can be caused by different components.

The driveshaft works with several components that will need to be examined to see which one has failed.
Drive Line Noise
The main components include U-joint, differential gears, bearings, and more.

Any noise being made by the driveshaft should be examined as a failed part can leave the driver stranded.

Other noises such as whirring, grinding, and any vibrations can also help to find the source of the sound.

5 Causes for Driveshaft Clunk Noise When Accelerating or Decelerating

  • Bad U-joint
  • Bad U-joint
    When a U-joint starts to fail, it can make a clunking noise when first accelerating and sometimes when decelerating.

    There will also often be a vibration while the vehicle is moving.
    Driveshaft Problems
    The U-joint connects to the differential and allows the driveshaft to spin at an angle.

    When it fails, it is necessary to have it fixed since if it completely fails; the vehicle can lose the drive-line leaving the driver stranded.

  • Differential Gear Failing
  • Differential Gear Failing
    The differential houses gears that transfer power to the wheels.

    If a gear becomes damaged or loose, it can make a clunking noise.

    For example, the pinion gear is one such gear that, if loose, causes a clunking noise.

    When a gear goes bad, often there will be metal shavings inside the differential case.
    Differential
    The oil fill plug can be removed and checked for any metal shaving. If there are metal shavings, there is likely a problem with one of the gears.

  • Bad Axel or Wheel Bearing
  • Bad Axel or Wheel Bearing
    A bad axle can cause noises which usually is a constant whirring sound.

    In some cases, they can also cause a clunking noise when first moving or coming to a stop.

    When an axle wheel bearing fails, the area will heat up and can be felt.

    If the area around the bearing is very hot, it has likely failed and needs to be replaced.

  • Loose Component
  • Leaf spring with a loose bolt
    Any loose component from the driveshaft to the tires can make a noise if loose.

    For example, a leaf spring with a loose bolt can make a clunking sound as it shifts about.

    All the bolts can be checked and examined to see if any are loose.

  • Loose Lug Nuts
  • Loose Lug Nuts
    While rare, if the lug nuts become loose, the rim may be making a clunk sound.

    Check all the tires with a tire iron to be sure the lug nuts are all tight.

Summary
A driveshaft that is making a clunking sound when accelerating or decelerating will need to be fixed.

If a driveshaft component fails, it should be fixed; otherwise, it can leave the driver stranded.
Driveshaft Clunk Noise when Gas Pedal Pressed
Common causes include a bad U-join, differential gear, bearings, and more.

Each component will need to be examined to see which has failed and which needs to be fixed.

Have you had a driveshaft making a clunking sound when accelerating or decelerating? Let us know your thoughts below.

Category: General Automotive Repair

About Bob Thomas

Bob Thomas is an automotive mechanic with 30 plus years experience. He is a contributor to several publications and has written many articles on automotive maintenance and repairs. He also has created many auto repair videos on YouTube.

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