A front-wheel drive vehicle makes a loud clunk on initial acceleration. Which could be the cause?

In this scenario, the most appropriate cause for the loud clunking noise on initial acceleration in a front-wheel drive vehicle is linked to worn inner CV joints. The constant velocity (CV) joints connect the driveshaft to the wheels, allowing for smooth transmission of power while accommodating the up-and-down motion of the suspension.

When the inner CV joint is worn, it may not engage properly during acceleration, resulting in sudden movements or clunks as the vehicle begins to move. This noise is often accentuated during initial acceleration when the vehicle is under load, making the issue more apparent.

While worn rack mount bushings, worn control arm bushings, and loose cradle mounting bolts can contribute to various noises or handling issues, they typically do not produce a loud clunk specifically associated with the acceleration process in the same way that damaged CV joints do. Understanding the role of each component can clarify why the inner CV joint issue aligns more specifically with the symptoms described in the question.