I bought a used 98 Durango yesterday that drove fine during the test drive. About 10 minutes after purchasing the vehicle, I noticed a loud clunking noise started as I hit small holes in the road or going over speed bumps. This loud noise did not affect my steering in any way though. I also noticed a grinding noise if I made a right turn around 10mph but no noise if I made a left turn. The next morning i drove the vehicle and all was fine for around 10 minutes and the clunking noise started back as well as the grinding noise when making a right turn. Any ideas? I'm bringing the Durango back to the private seller, but he wants his mechanic to check it out.

 

the grinding when making a right turn is a wheel bearing, i want to say the left one since it gets loaded up extra when you make a left turn (someone will chime in to confirm that), the clunk when you hit bumps could be a few things, an idea of where the noise is coming from would be helpful.

 

+1 on the left bearing going bad. If you make a right turn, the left side will get more load and stress due to the weight being shifted to the left when making rights. Like when you lean left when making a right-hand turn and vice-versa making a left turn. Document the sounds by taking a camcorder with you and filming the situations that make the noises. That way you have proof. But since it's a private seller, I don't think there were any warrantees implied or otherwise. Good luck though!
BTW, the clunking noise could be related to the suspension going. Do you know a trusted mech that can take a look at the D before you bring it to the seller? That way you have a second opinion already "just in case". HTH.

 

Wheel bearing and possible ball joints.


I always have at least a 128 point inspection done to any car or truck I buy and pay the $69 bucks or whatever as it is a great piece of mind BEFORE buying!

 

Thanks for the tips. I will definitely get an inspection on any other used vehicles that i decide to purchase. I got my durango on a lift today and both upper ball joints were at critical failure and i also had to get a hub assembly for the front passanger side.