1999 Subaru Outback Clunk out of right front side.

Hi there,

Thank you for the donation,

This is normally a worn CV (constant velocity) joint in the front drive shaft, it is not an overly expensive repair, i would get a few quotes first and if you feel like doing this job your self, re post and i will advise on the procedure and special tools needed to do the job.

Mark (mhpautos)

Thank You,
Silly question, would the side that I that the sound comes from be the side that needs to be change.

yes , you can usually tell be seeing the ripped boot (outer joint) and grease all over, too...just to verify-this is a rythmic clunk,clunk,clunk....?

Yes, it is a rythmic clunk at low speed hard turns. I don't see a ripped or damage boot on either end of the shafts. but on th shaft were it goes into cv boot on the engines driver side looks as if some liquid is seeping out. What would be the best way to determine whic joint is damaged.

a slight seep's not a biggie -especially if on small end of boot. The sound travels but do the side you think it is -or have someone ride in pass. seat and see if they agree with your choice from thier perspective, or better yet, drive by your helper standing in the parking lot and see what they can hear.You'll need a big socket and will have to slip lower ball joint out to replace axle, need a heavy guy with a large bar....

Hi there,

You can normally tell which side is faulty by driving in a full lock circle left or right if the noise is worse say left, the left joint (outer ) will be faulty, as it is turning faster and under more load in this position, inners usually don't give much dramas, unless the boot is torn and you have lost the grease, the outer joint is the one the is doing most of the work.

Mark (mhpautos)