Hi, I have a clunking noise from the front suspension when I turn the steering wheel. The alignment shop said it's probably bad strut mount bearings as other parts don't seem to be worn, but they were not sure and said they needed to check the bearings. I have a few questions about this diagnosis:
1- Is this diagnosis plausible or should I check with other shops?
2- Can I drive with the bad strut mount bearings for a while?
3- Do I need to replace any other suspension parts (struts, bushings, etc.) as labor will be charged for demounting all suspension components?
2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 AT - 140K miles
Bearings are for things that spin, like wheels and shafts, and I sure hope your struts aren't spinning. He probably said "bushings". Bushings isolate vibration.
#1 - this a common item to wear. Scotty has made several videos about struts (watch the suspension playlist on his Youtube channel)
#2 - I recommend changing them as soon as possible. Your vehicle handling is reduced, and your tires will wear unevenly. If you leave it too long, other things CAN start breaking and lead to a wreck.
#3 - Yes the struts themselves should be changed if they're worn out, and top and bottom bushings. After that you should have an alignment done since struts can affect that.
Thanks for your answers
It's a 2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 AT - 140K miles
I actually searched for this part before and there is such a thing called "strut bearing" with part no. "54612-2P000"
well I'll be a monkey's uncle... the strut does turn in its mount. Anyway, it's all part of the strut mount assembly.
Year, make, model, mileage please? What the hell is a strut mount bearing? They just bolt to suspension. Maybe you are referring to the strut mount bushings, the rubber donuts that separate metal to metal contact. These wear out and can cause a lot of clunking noises. All they have to do to check them is look at them and maybe grab and pull on them. I would find another mechanic to look at it for you.
