Toyota reports that some of its 2008-12 Scion xD models may produce a clunking sound from the front suspension when accelerating or decelerating, while braking or when being driven over undulating roads.
One likely cause for the noise, the car maker said, is inadequate torque at the lower control arm's No.2 retaining bolt.
Retightening the bolt at both control arms to a revised torque setting of 110 ft.-lbs should eliminate the trouble.
The illustration shows the location of the No. 2 retaining bolt in relation to the lower control arm.
Once you raise the vehicle on a lift, look for an orange paint mark on the head of the bolt. If you don't see the mark, just retighten the bolt to the revised torque setting.
If you do see an orange mark it means the bolt can only be tightened once.
If that's the case, remove the bolt and install a new-design fastener, part No. 90119-14151, tightening it to the revised torque setting. To complete the fix, repeat the procedure at the other control arm, then lower the vehicle.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].