Popping Noise while Turning

[cuyoda]

I have an 07 Maxima SE with 20,000 miles on it. Recently I have noticed a popping noise eminating from the front right of the car when turning sharply. It only happens once per turn and doesn't seem to happen every time. Most of the time the car has to be moving, but I have heard it while turning the wheel with out moving once or twice. I have also noticed sometimes that if you turn the wheel with out moving and then begin to move while still holding the wheel turned, you can also hear it. This doesn't happen every time either though. It sounds like you ran over a branch or something- just one single pop and thats it. For some reason it seems to vary in volume though.

I always like to get an idea of what I am dealing with before messing with the dealership- Any ideas?

[allensteiner]

probably your CV axle starting to go. don't mess with a dealership - find a good independant mechanic, will be cheaper.

[cuyoda]

probably your CV axle starting to go. don't mess with a dealership - find a good independant mechanic, will be cheaper.

Thanks for the info. Well, luckily I am well with-in the standard warranty period at 20,000 miles. I am guessing it will get worse- how long is it safe to go on it before it is essential to take it in?

I just want to make sure it is a really obvious problem before I take it in. I have been subject to the annoying "we can't replicate the problem" quote too many times from dealers.

[allensteiner]

the cv will be good to drive with the clicking till...it breaks i'd take it in since you're still on warranty and show them myself what's up, so they can't get out of fixing it

[canucklehead]

I'm thinking balljoint. if you're under warranty, start the paper trail now and keep bothering them until it is fixed.

[lightsout]

i had the same EXACT thing in my 2k Maxima. i believe we have similar axle shaft assemblies. My outer axle boot finally got old and decided to split, causing my axle to run dry for a few days . I will be replacing both axles today(Thursday) and over the next few days upgrading the alignment parts. I will keep you posted on my successes with the project and pictures if needed

[lightsout]

sure enough, the axle had gravel in it from the road(only after the boot split). I haven't test driven it yet, b/c my driver side axle should be coming in the mail today, and i've got to install that one first

but here's the new axle pic.