Clunk Noise while braking.

Hello everyone. I own a Tacoma 98 2.4L V4. I recently heard truck making clunk noise when i brake. It doesn't make that noise if i'm going fast or press brakes hard. It makes that clunk when i press brakes normally in between 15-20 mph. It sounds like someone is hitting truck's chassi with a hammer. It makes it only one time. once i take off from home, It makes that noise on second or third stop. after that it brakes all quiet. I have no idea what it could be. And sometime it doesn't make it at all. Can someone please help me out with this? thanks.

 

Front or rear? And its a V4?

 

sounds more like its coming from front. But not quiet sure. i checked the U-joints too, they seemed fine. Do you think it can be the differential? I shaked the front tires vertically but there's no play. and yes it's 4 cylinders.

 

I would start with checking upper and lower ball joints, calipers and brake assemblies for anything loose.

 

upper and lower ball joints have grease on them but doesn't look like they are torn. calipers and other brake assemblies are all tight.

 

and how do i find out if the brake pads are loose?

 

caliper bolts and pins that keep the pads in place.

maybe check the drive line, motor mounts

 

Possibly your spare tire is loose and banging around?

 

sounds like the axel wrap problem maybe? i used to have the axel wrap issue but now im lighter on the braking and brake more advanced and it doesnt happen as much.

 

Not sure if this makes a difference but I drive a manual and it makes that noise. I notice it when I am at a drive thru and am pulling up to the window; so I am in first gear and when I push in the clutch then brake, it makes that sound. I just bought it a month ago so I think I will take it in and ask. I am going to feel stupid if it's just a normal noise.

 

motor mounts are fine, what else should i check in driveline? i already checked U-joints.

 

Can axle wrap make that loud clunk noise? Because it doesn't matter how soft I brake. It makes that clunk around 15-20mph anyways.

 

well running out of things to check, Control arm bushings?

 

Loose u-bolts? Re-tork them

 

U bolts had little play in them. I tightened them up and we'll see if that clunk comes back. Thanks.