If your vehicle is showing clunking or popping noise from the wheels when applying the brakes, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
The brake pads are shifting inside the caliper bracket when the brakes are applied. This usually happens because the anti-rattle clips or shims are worn out, broken, or were left off during a recent brake job.
The rubber bushings that connect the suspension control arms to the vehicle frame have degraded or torn. When you brake, the braking torque causes the entire wheel and arm assembly to shift violently, creating a heavy clunk.
The bolts holding the brake caliper or its mounting bracket were not properly torqued during recent service. The braking force causes the entire caliper assembly to shift and slam against the steering knuckle.
The ball joint connecting the control arm to the wheel hub has developed excessive play. The sudden weight transfer and braking force cause the joint to pop or clunk as it shifts out of position.
The upper mount bearing for the suspension strut is worn out or broken. The diving motion of the car's nose during braking causes the top of the strut to shift and clunk against the vehicle body.
The lug nuts holding the wheel to the hub are loose. This allows the wheel to physically shift back and forth against the wheel studs when braking torque is applied, which can quickly shear the studs off.