I need automotive help, please

[auburngrad82]

My wife's Forester started "thumping" when she turns the wheels. It happens mostly when turning left and is very prevalent when backing up to the left. If you're outside the car you can hear a clicking sound when she turns.

We took it to the dealer since it's under warranty and they told us it was normal. If it was normal why did it just start? We've had the car since April and it has not done it before.

The car is an '09 Subaru Forester with around 11,000 miles.

I'm concerned that it could be a bad CV joint or something that could either cause a wreck or leave her stranded.

I guess I have two questions. First, has anyone experienced a similar issue and second, if I don't trust the dealer to address the problem while the car is under warranty can an automotive repair facility perform under warranty repairs or do I have to take it to a dealer?

TIA

[Lincolngirl]

1. This is not normal!!

So don't listen to them when they tell you that.
Call the Service director at the dealership, and if necessary call the General Manager.
I've never had a Subaru, but used to sell cars, and have heard many stories about situations like this.
If you live in an area with more than one dealer, go to another dealer.
It may not be easy for you, but make noise. Unfortunately it can be the only way.
Next time you take it in, have a Tech go on a ride with you. Ask your salesperson who you should ask for.
If you didn't buy it there, it doesn't matter! Service and Sales departments are separate.
If they don't help you, call Subaru. Basically Raise Hell until you get it taken care of.

Good luck, and if you have any questions, let me know!

[IndianaJones]

2. have you looked at the cv boots? nt.

[GoneOffShore]

3. Wheel bearing?

Get it looked at by an independent mechanic.
And call Subaru.

[Lyric]

4. Could be a joint problem, or bad tie-rod ends.

The latter being more potentially dangerous than the former. Better have it checked out ASAP. A bad tie-rod end (or ends) can cause you to lose steering ability completely. Imagine that while going 70 mph on the interstate.

[Blue Diadem]

5. Here are a couple forums for Subaru Foresters

http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/WebX/.f0a084e/

http://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/

You might post there and ask if there are known problems or if anyone has had a similar problem.

My daughter had some problems with her Durango a few years ago and she found the answers on a Durango forum.

[meegbear]

6. Get a Mac!

Oops, sorry. Pavlovian Lounge response.

Bring it to a "trusted" mechanic and have them inspect it; ask friends and neighbors where they go. Most will do it for free.

[auburngrad82]

7. Thanks, guys

I've posted to one of the Forester forums mentioned above and will probably try to get it to a different dealer before driving it again.