Hello all.

Just got the S last week. The car runs fine and everything, but sometimes I'd hear this loud 'clunk' coming from the back of the car when starting up. I did some trials and discovered that only happens if I backed up into the parking spot. If I just pull into a spot, the next time I start the car I won't hear that noise.

Is this normal? I don't think any 'clunking' noise is normal.

What could be the cause for this noise? Are there anything I could do to get it looked at/fixed?

Thanks!!

 

sounds like your brakes breaking free when you start moving. should be normal.

 

You use the term "starting up". This is very confusing and can mean several different things.
"Starting up" can mean firing up the engine.
"Starting up" can mean beginning to move the car under power.
"Starting up" can mean driving up an incline.

When exactly do you get this noise. Explain in detail.

 

Sounds like when you back up the car to park you are in reverse and shut the car off either in reverse or in Neutral. Upon start up and you put the car in first gear...you get the "THUNK" that is normal on 1st gear engagement.

When you pull in normal and cut off....your first gear after start up is reverse. After you've backed out and go to first again you probably don't notice it as much since you are already either moving.....or the music is on or your not paying attention.

Just a thought.

 

What I meant by "starting up" is pressing the big, red, round button to the left of the steering wheel. Just as the engine caught on, there is this 'clunck' or 'thunk' noise from the rear, and to my right. Could it be the rear differential? BTW, I always leave the gear selector in neutral when I park it.

I've noticed the 1st gear engagement has some noise, but coming from a VW it's nothing compared to VW. hehehe

 

With the tranny in neutral, this "should" disconnect the transmission from the rear diff. However, in a cold start, it is possible to get some "viscous" transference of power through the transmission and back to the rear diff. What you hear may simply be the taking up of all the slack in the back part of the drivetrain.

OR .....................

If you notice this "thunk" at the moment the engine fires, it could also be caused by exhaust going through the system, making the back part of the exhaust shake. You could have a loose or broken exhaust hanger. Test this theory by sitting in the car like you would normally at a time when you get this noise. Then have someone grab the exhaust tip (one at a time) and give it a good shake. Anything sound familiar?