It sounds like I've got a woodpecker under the bonnet

[Fimbo]

When I turn the steering wheel on my 2000 reg A6, there is a sound I can only describe as like a woodpecker which seems to come from under the dash/bonnet. There is no vibration transmitted to the steering wheel and the wheels turn in and out fine. I've checked the p/s fluid and that's fine.

Any ideas what it might be? If so, any idea on cost? Any help much appreciated.

[Pistuphead]

CV joint probably, a fast knock knock knocking sound? Quite common and not that much to fix.

[Fort Jefferson]

Fimbo said:

When I turn the steering wheel on my 2000 reg A6, there is a sound I can only describe as like a woodpecker which seems to come from under the dash/bonnet. There is no vibration transmitted to the steering wheel and the wheels turn in and out fine. I've checked the p/s fluid and that's fine.

Any ideas what it might be? If so, any idea on cost? Any help much appreciated.

Standing still or driving along?

[fimbo]

thanks for your responses. It happens whenever the steering wheel is turned - I guess the car has always tended to be in motion when turning the wheel but it would probably do it when stood still.

[mat205125]

Does the frequency of the knocking noise change in relation to road speed (faster when your are going faster indicates a CV joint), or to something else - engine speed related (rev the engine with the wheels turned)

[fimbo]

Thanks folks. Problem confirmed as CV joints. Anti-roll bar links also need replacing. Can anyone explain to me what is causing the noise in the joint - I'm not mechanically minded but would be interested to know.

Cheers.

[Pistuphead]

There is a series of ball bearings in the joint and basically as you drive the ball bearings get worn and the grease will gradually wear away so the ball bearings rattle.
Also if you kerb the car or send a shock through the wheel you can 'chip' a ball bearing and it will cause a clicking.