Recently, I've been feeling/hearing a loud knock coming from the front driver's side tire when coming to a stop. It happens mostly when coming from highway speeds to a slow stop. When it's cold or when hard breaking, it doesn't do it. It's almost as if a piece of metal is banging against the axle or body. I've looked underneath and everything seems intact.

I guess I'll have to take it to a dealer, but I'd like a better idea of what to tell them. Any ideas?

 

it might be a loose shock might check that first

 

i don't have a lot of experience, but i would start with checking ball joint(s), tie rod(s),track bar, strut and shock tower for looseness. possibly check brake pad condition as well. and what has been suggested with the shock.

 

Mine is doing the same thing. It seems only to do it while slowing from 50+ I checked the shocks,towers and every other part up front and have no clue what it is...and of course when i have the dealership look at it, it didn't do it! its only once in awhile. If you find out what it is please pass it along!

 

I have the same thing going on and I think I have nailed it down to the u joint on the drivers side axle.It has a little play in it.

 

i don't know if its just a chance but all our trucks have manual 6 speeds in them

 

Thanks for your input.

I took it in for 75k mi service and to look at the front end and specifically included your suggestions. The dealer did the service and didn't find anything wrong. I haven't heard the noise since.

I'll just have to take it back when it starts again.

 

Front u-joint fried I bet...

 

Well it happened again. This time I insisted that the tech go for a ride with me. In a driving rain, I found a spot where I turned off the engine and drifted down the road. The sound and vibration couldn't hide.

And the winner is.. a rusty u-joint, driver's side! Now everything is smooth.