2007 Dodge Caliber Driver's Wheel Issues After Curb Impact
drivers wheel is towed out after hitting curb. replaced strut yet wheel stilll makes knocking sound when braking . wheel is loose when wobbled side to side
You’ve got a classic suspension/steering issue after a curb hit. The wheel being toed out and loose side-to-side points to a damaged tie rod end or ball joint, possibly a bent knuckle or a trashed wheel bearing. The knocking under braking is likely from the same play. Replacing the strut won’t fix looseness or toe issues if the real damage is in the steering or lower suspension.
If the looseness is obvious when you rock the wheel at 3 and 9 o’clock, tie rod end is most likely. If you get play at 12 and 6, think ball joint or wheel bearing. If the hub moves with the wheel, it’s the bearing or knuckle.
Most likely culprits
- Front tie rod end — Takes the hit in a curb strike, causes toe-out and side-to-side play.
- Front lower ball joint — Can get hammered, especially if the wheel took a hard shot.
- Front wheel hub bearing assembly — If you get looseness in all directions, bearing may be wiped out.
How to narrow it down
-
Jack up the wheel, grab at 3 and 9 o’clock, rock side-to-side.
If you see the tie rod moving separately from the knuckle, it’s bad. -
Grab at 12 and 6 o’clock, rock up and down.
If you see movement at the ball joint or the whole knuckle, ball joint or bearing is suspect. -
Watch the hub while rocking.
If the hub moves in/out of the knuckle, it’s the bearing. -
Have someone step on the brake while you rock the wheel.
If the play goes away, it’s likely a wheel bearing. If not, it’s a joint or tie rod. -
Inspect the tie rod visually for bends or torn boots.
Any visible damage means replace. -
Check for any visible cracks or bends in the knuckle.
If the knuckle is bent, alignment will never be right.
Possible parts (if needed)
- Front wheel hub bearing assembly
- Front lower ball joint
- Front tie rod end
A few questions
- When you rock the wheel, does the play feel worse at 3/9 or 12/6 o’clock?
- Did you check the tie rod visually for bends or torn boots?
- Is the knocking under braking a single clunk or a rapid knocking?
Safety note:
Do NOT drive this car until you’ve confirmed what’s loose. A failed tie rod or ball joint can cause total loss of steering. Get it fixed before road testing.