Drivers of the Volkswagen Jetta and GLI may experience a clunking noise during acceleration from a stop or when downshifting for rapid acceleration. The noise will also be accompanied by a light impact sensation under the driver's feet. Drivers may also notice unexplained changes to their front-end alignment while driving.
This problem is commonly called "VW Sub-frame Clunk" and is caused by the gradual stretching of the bolts securing the sub-frame to the vehicle body. The subframe is a large plate that secures to the bottom of the engine bay and connects the body of the car to the engine and suspension. Over time, the bolts securing the subframe stretch, allowing it to move and strike the bottom of the car when accelerating.
VW Sub-frame Clunk repair requires replacement of the Volkswagen Jetta sub-frame bolt and spacer. There are many aftermarket subframe bolt kits, and Volkswagen supplies upgraded subframe bolts and spacers.