I strange thing happened to my car this morning. As I was driving away, I heard a clunking noise from under what seems to be the driver side front wheel. I felt a slight, corresponding jolt through the steering wheel. At first I though I had hit a pot hole, but then as I drove more I realized that the clunk was happening even on smooth road. It happens mostly (or at least I notice it mostly) at slow speeds and in first gear.
As far as I can tell, it's not related to steering wheel position (i.e. it happens when I'm driving straight or turning). Also, it doesn't seem to be related to road conditions, such as bumps, inclines, etc. It's relatively random, except for the fact that I only seem to notice it as slow speeds.
It's very slight and you have to turn off the radio to hear it, but I'm worried that there is a problem with the control arms or with a bearing.
Could it just be a loose skid guard?
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.