2016 Malibu: Loud clicking noise when turning left in reverse... any ideas?

I have a loud clicking noise from the front driver tire, but it only happens when I’m turning left in reverse at a slow speed. Any ideas on what it could be? If it was the CV shaft, it would make noise in both directions and while in the drive. TIA!

That sounds like it could be a problem with the CV joint. They can act up under certain conditions. Have you checked it out?

Marlowe said:
That sounds like it could be a problem with the CV joint. They can act up under certain conditions. Have you checked it out?

I haven’t had a chance yet. I just assumed it was something else since it only happens in reverse.

Could also be a loose or damaged brake shield. Sometimes those can make weird noises when the wheel is turned.

Van said:
Could also be a loose or damaged brake shield. Sometimes those can make weird noises when the wheel is turned.

That’s true! I had that issue once, and it was super annoying until I figured it out.

I had a similar noise, and it turned out to be a stone stuck in the brake caliper. Might want to check that too.

Mica said:
I had a similar noise, and it turned out to be a stone stuck in the brake caliper. Might want to check that too.

Good call! I’ll check for any rocks or debris in there.

If it’s only happening in reverse, maybe it’s something with the transmission or linkage? Just a thought.

Noor said:
If it’s only happening in reverse, maybe it’s something with the transmission or linkage? Just a thought.

I hadn’t considered that. I’ll keep it in mind when I take it to the shop.

Definitely check the suspension components too. Sometimes they can cause weird noises when turning.

West said:
Definitely check the suspension components too. Sometimes they can cause weird noises when turning.

Yeah, things like the strut mounts can make noise if they’re worn out.

I’d recommend taking it to a mechanic sooner rather than later. You don’t want it to turn into a bigger issue.

Harlan said:
I’d recommend taking it to a mechanic sooner rather than later. You don’t want it to turn into a bigger issue.

Agreed! I’m planning to get it checked out this week.

Could be something as simple as a loose bolt or nut. I’d check all the wheel fasteners.

Keelan said:
Could be something as simple as a loose bolt or nut. I’d check all the wheel fasteners.

I’ll definitely look into that. Thanks for the suggestion!

Make sure to keep us posted on what you find! It’s always helpful to know the outcome.

Wylder said:
Make sure to keep us posted on what you find! It’s always helpful to know the outcome.

Will do! I appreciate all the input from everyone.

I had a clicking noise that turned out to be my axle. Just something to keep in mind if all else fails.

Zenith said:
I had a clicking noise that turned out to be my axle. Just something to keep in mind if all else fails.

Thanks for the heads up! I’ll keep that in mind if nothing else turns up.