Symptoms
Metallic clunk when steering or when the suspension articulates, at no particular angle.
The fix, step by step
- Check bushes and the track rod ends before assuming a wheel bearing.
- One owner traced the noise to a track rod end: count the threads to keep the toe close, split the taper with a ball-joint splitter (the hardest part of the job), fit the new end and get the alignment checked.
Tools & part numbers
- Ball-joint splitter, spanners, torque wrench
- track rod end
Where to buy the parts
Defender 2020 tie rod end (search)Rovers North ↗
Track rod end (search, confirm L663 fitment)LR Direct ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Land Rover Defender (L663) parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.