wakko

This noise just came on that past weekend when all I did to the car was cleaning MAF, swap air filter and a normal car wash. THe noise comes on even during normal driving. But when I let the car go to 60-70mph and downshift (w/o pressing on brake; I have a FWD TIP btw) this clunking noise happens as if some metal hitting each other.

I am thinking it might be the 1) control arms 2) brake pad worn? 3) TRE. Those were the only issues that I remember which generally make noise. (40k on car ~3.5 yrs) But not sure if thats what leading to problem. Here are some picture I took when I removed the front driver wheel.

arms
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01022.jpg">
close up
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01033.jpg">

TRE
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01025.jpg">

My old wheel was hit this part of the car hence the scratch marks (I check my current rims, no scratch can be found)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01026.jpg">

Brake pads (outter)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01027.jpg">

Brake pads (inner)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/35871/dsc01029.jpg">

I also try moving the wheel around to check if any play is in there. (I shift to N to allow wheel to move). I can't move the wheel by hand, so I just turn the steering wheel. No play was found.

Thanks for the help

LaR H 88

I get some clunking like that, I think it's my exhaust coming in contact with my subframe. Just another possibility to check out. Maybe some engine or tranny mounts are going south allowing for more room to move around and bang against stuff. Hope you find out what happens

ralley

in pic 2, looks like the rubber bushing is shot. Maybe time to replace control arms.

wnut

zip ties!!!

LaR H 88

Duh. Missed that one

DukeBoy27

What makes it look "shot"? me a newbie... thanks