B5.5 clank when coming to a stop
Hi all, I have a 2003 passat (AWF manual) that I've had for a decade and half. Over the years I've gotten used to the noises the front suspension can make when things are wearing out. Over the last year it's had all new front suspension arms, except for the top two on the RHS (still to do due to a stock issue). Also replaced the transmission mounts and one of the sway bar links.
It's mostly noise free now but one thing hasn't gone away and that is a metal clank when the car comes to a stop under gentle/normal braking, occasionally felt through the pedals. This happens just as the car stops, not when the brakes are first applied. It's very difficult to tell where this is coming from as it doesn't do it all the time but it appears to be coming from the front LHS. It does not make this sound under any other conditions. Hard braking it won't do it at all. It seems to be more frequent when the car has been driven for a while but will occasionally do it 'cold'.
My gut says it is a brake pad or the caliper on the front left wheel but I've had the wheel off to check fitment and cannot see anything wrong with the brakes. I also can't see any signs of harsh movement such as shiny metal (I'm in the UK so everything is rusty all the time).
Would be happy to hear if anyone has experienced the same thing or if anyone has any ideas before I replace the front brakes and possibly calipers!