2003 Civic EX knocking / clunking - front end
 

Okay bear with me here as I give as much info as possible:

I have a 2003 civic ex (standard transmission)

problem: slight knocking/hard clicking noise from front end (sounds like driver side) sounds like going over very small bumps about every 1/4 of a second.

I DO NOT get the knocking sound when turning so I don't think it has to do with my CV joints. (But if anyone has had bad CV joints and knows the sound, it's almost exactly like that, but a lower pitched sound not as "crackling")

The knocking only occurs when I'm at a higher RPM (2800-3200); mind you, NOT when I'm accelerating.
To clarify, I usually only hear the sound when downshifting. more common in 3rd and 4th gear or when coasting in said gears.

I can feel it as well, I can feel it thru the brake pedal, thru the clutch, thru the gas pedal and also my steering column/steering wheel, it's not a violent feeling, but rather a soft tapping sensation --

Now this is important; It seems to stop when I apply the brakes.

I've had brake problems before when I first purchased the car 3 years ago. replaced brake pads and rotors, drove like a dream until about 2 days ago.

Recent work done:
about a week ago: oil change, tire rotation, the norm.
about a year ago: timing belt replaced

Any ideas? I'd like to think it's a brake problem, but a couple people have told me it doesn't sound like it'd be the brakes.
Thank you very much!

Re: 2003 Civic EX knocking / clunking - front end
 

welp, it was worth a shot - thanks anyways. To update - the problem was loose lugnuts on the front left wheel. Had to replace bolts as well ~$170 w/ labor.

Re: 2003 Civic EX knocking / clunking - front end
 

nice good to know thanks