Clicking/grinding when turning wheel

[dex8425]

I've noticed that there is a grinding/popping feeling and noise coming from the left wheel area when I turn the steering wheel to the left, especially when starting out and especially when it's cold. Can feel it with my left foot. Unfortunately I live in MN, so it's always cold. This didn't happen last winter though. Do I need to add grease somewhere? Thanks.

[jjeff]

I also noticed the same thing the first winter with my new '13, it would generally only happen when quite cold out and generally backing up and turning the wheel. It took 2 trips to the dealer because the first time they said they couldn't hear anything as of course the day I took it in, the temps had warmed up. The second time they ended up replacing several front end parts but as it was under warranty I'm not exactly what all they replaced, it was free and after I didn't hear the noise. About half way through the next winter the sound came back but not as loud. I still hear it occasionally to this day but basically ignore it. Not sure there is anything to grease but I guess it wouldn't hurt trying.
Since it sounds like your Leaf is no longer under warranty I'd first see if there is anything to grease, if not I'd just drive it until it gets worse and in the case of mine it doesn't seem to be, just somewhat annoying for such a new low mileage car. I never had such problems with my prior 2 Toyota vehicles and I sure with Toyota had made a BEV available in my market but alas no they wasted(IMO) so much time on fuel cell vehicles other companies like Nissan overtook them and now they are scrambling to catch up

[LeftieBiker]

A few wheel bearings have gone bad. Maybe it's an early sign of that.

[craig]

Your left upper strut bearing has come apart. I had the same symptoms on my 2014, and when they changed the left upper strut bearing the problem was fixed.

[Aussie]

I've noticed a similar noise at full lock turning left. Also I've been getting a 'rusty hinge' kind of noise when it's really cold outside and I go over bumps / speed humps.

I found this thread http://www.mynissanleaf.com/viewtopic.p ... ilit=creak which provides some part numbers for a possible solution.

I have taken it in for a safety inspection (not at Nissan) and they assured me that everything was safe and operational, and that it was just a low-temp noise. Given it's warmed up a little here in Dallas, it's not high on my priority list just yet.

[dex8425]

Hmm. Strut wouldn't really make sense, as it doesn't make noise when I go over a bump, only when turning the wheel. It's gotta be a bearing going bad though.

[Durandal]

That sounds a lot like a CV joint. The mechanics should have tested the integrity of the CV joint boot to make sure it didn't get torn from road debris or wear. I've encountered this on older cars before. If you get the boot fixed before the CV joint fails, it's a fairly inexpensive fix.

[Durandal]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2c1nxR7aq1o

[dex8425]

I thought of CV joints, as I've had that replaced on cars before, but at only 18,000 miles that seemed unlikely. Additionally, the noise/clicking goes away towards the end of trips, or when the weather warms up. I don't think CV joints are weather sensitive.

[powersurge]

I think you folks are trying to play "What disease do I have.." Dude, you cant drive a car for free forever...

Just like any other car, take it to a mechanic.