Hello, I am new to the forums. So the 2001 outback wagon (auto 2.5)  has a clicking coming from the front end.  checked it out and presumed it was one of the cv's. SO I completely replaced them both.  Test drive.... still cliicking.  Anyone on here have any ideas as to what may be making the noise?  noise is a clicking It only occurs when applying throttle, not when coasting, the frequency of clicks goes up with speed.  it clicks under braking and under engine braking.  sounds the same with the wheels turned as not.

Any help would be most appreciated

Thanks

Tomas

Have you checked your ball joints, struts, strut mounts, and tie-rods?

My buddy is doing the work have to check with him.  He is giving everything a test now with a stethescope

I would think strut mounts or ball joints first. You should be able to Google how to test them. Not sure a stethoscope will help with those.

Does it click with the car stationary and in neutral?

How about when stationary, but in gear and trying to drive against the foot-brake?

Edited July 2, 201510 yr by forester2002s

It does not click unless the car is moving. probably starts being noticeable around 10 to 15 mph. volume peaks around 25mph and levels off.  Frequency of clicks climbs with speed.

disc brake hitting something

 

or

 

front diff

check front diff gear oil level and condition.  if drained, check for bits, chunks, or metal in the oil.

 

aftermarket axles are prone to issues - so make certain it's not one of them - even the "new" axle.  if the sound absolutely made no change before/after the axle replacement then it's probably not the axle - even a junk axle would probably make at least a different noise.

 

a wheel bearing might cause this - but that's not a normal symptom and you would probably have some inclination as to whether it was the left or right side causing it.  having someone stand outside and listen or hanging out the front windows might help determine if it's left, right, or central.  left/right would suggest wheel bearing.  central would suggest front diff (if you're positive it's not he axles).

 

generally a used transmission is used to repair that.

www.car-part.com

Edited July 2, 201510 yr by grossgary

Looks like it is the front diff.  damage to the ring gear. some metal bits in the oil.  swapped fluid for lucas but it still making noise.  So replacing the whole transmission is the way to go?  or replace diff internals? or replace diff?

Thanks everyone for the advice

Much appreciated

Tomas