Car making thump, thump, thump sound... what would it be?

[cbc58]

o.k. ... here's the situation: my 1997 Buick Regal GS has started to make a thump, thump, thump sound when the car accelerates rapidly or makes a sharp turn. it doesn't make it when there is a slow acceleration or riding on the highway.

about a week ago I hit a major dip in the road and thought I had escaped damage and heard nothing up until about 2 days ago. there appears to be a dent in the transmission pan but it's not all that bad.

what might it be? tks.

[BNaylor]

That doesn't sound good. Did you look for any other possible damage? Check the subframe and inspect the driveline components like the axle half shafts to include CV joints. Also, damaged tires or wheels can cause a thumping sound under acceleration. How does the steering feel?

[irbf]

Have the tires checked immediately. This is a potential safety issue.

Also check the plastic panels to insure one is not bent and now rubbing against a rotating part.

Most garages will put it up on the rack without charge. They may find something obvious.

[cbc58]

tks. it's still doing it and i took it into 2 shops and they did not find anything. very odd. took off both wheels.

the thumping occurs when the car is accellerating fast or going up a steep hill and the gas is depressed, but only sometimes.

[BNaylor]

How many miles do you have?

Something sounds worn out. Did you get the alignment checked?