Thud thud/rattle/clunking noise comes from the driver's front side

2016 NISSAN PATHFINDER
45,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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The noise only comes for the first 6-8 miles and them disappears almost completely. I have got the struts, Stabilizer links and bushing, caliper bushings and tires changed. Absolutely clueless what that could be. The local mechanics seem more interested to make money.
Jul 31, 2020 at 3:42 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

It could have something to do with the 4wd actuator. By any chance, could you record it and upload it for me to hear?

Also, this vehicle is still under power-train warranty. Have you let a dealer hear it? It has a 60,000 mile or 5 years.

Let me know.
Joe

Jul 31, 2020 at 10:34 PM
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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Thanks Joe, attached is the video.
Aug 1, 2020 at 7:15 AM
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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Do you think this could be the probable cause?
Aug 1, 2020 at 7:17 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I did hear it. It sounds like something is loose. Keep in mind, I'm not there to hear it, but it sounds like a rattle. Your second video, is it the in and out movement you see in the axle you are concerned about? If that is the case, don't worry. They will move in and out a bit.

Considering all you have done on the front end, check to make sure there isn't a broken exhaust hanger or heat shield. I also have another question. Is this noise only evident when the vehicle is moving?

Also, when you hear the noise, does it stop or change when the brakes are applied?

Joe
Aug 1, 2020 at 10:34 PM
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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Many thanks for your prompt response Joe. I understand it is difficult to ascertain the noise remotely. The strange part is the noise comes only for the first 5-6 miles and then disappears to a great extent. It comes only over uneven roads/bumps. To me it seems that overnight some lubricant accumulates at a point and when the car moves, it covers the joint again and the noise subsides.
Aug 2, 2020 at 5:46 AM
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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Missed to mention. The noise is there with and without pressing the brakes. I recently got the caliper bushings changed. I am not technically qualified but basis google knowledge I have gained, do you think it could be control arm bushings?
Aug 2, 2020 at 7:25 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I would think a control arm bushing would not go away. That is what is confusing me. It wouldn't hurt to check suspension parts. If you look at the attached pic, I highlighted things to check for play and to confirm they are tight. I realize you had new parts installed, but perhaps something is loose.

Let me know.

Joe
Aug 2, 2020 at 8:33 PM
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SHARAD CHOUDHARY
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Thanks again Joe! Whilst the mechanics that I take the car to have said nothing is loose, however continues to get baffled as to why the noise comes only the in the first few miles.
Aug 3, 2020 at 9:48 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You are very welcome. And to be honest, it is really odd that it only lasts the first few miles. That is very odd.

Let me know what you find. I would love to know.

Take care,
Joe
Aug 3, 2020 at 10:25 PM