Clunk When Accelerating from Coast

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

A clunk noise occurring when accelerating from coast or a standing start may be caused by a worn or damaged wheel drive shaft tripot joint. The common cause of wheel drive shaft tripot damage is the loss of lubricating grease and/or the presence of foreign material and contaminates in the joint. This usually occurs as a result of a torn or damaged tripot joint seal (boot).

Carefully inspect the wheel drive shaft tripot seal (boot) for cuts, tears or other signs of damage that may allow the loss of the lubricating grease and/or the entry of contaminates. If the seal(s) appear intact, remove the wheel drive shaft from the vehicle and inspect the tripot joint. Rotate the tripot joint in a circular motion. Do not allow the tripot spider to become disengaged from the race (housing), or damage to the tripot joint will occur. The movement of the tripot joint should be smooth and even. If any binding or impeded motion is felt, the tripot joint requires replacement.