Clunking noise when driving over a pebble., (YES I used the search engine) Options

[GriffGirl]

I didn't wanna threadjack or anything since my clunking noise seems to be totally different than the "clunking while braking" thread... I know my rear struts are blown (there's evidence of leaking) and I'm getting ready to fix that very soon finally. But while I'm up in there I want to fix whatever it is that causes the awful clunking in the rear of my car. It happens mostly when I'm driving on the streets as opposed to highway. At higher speeds (over 45 or 50) it doesn't make the noise. I searched around and have found conflicting reasons that point to either the endlinks or the swaybar bushings (or strut mounts).

Anyone have any input on this, and how to I tell which one it is? I don't want to just arbitrarily replace stuff that doesn't need replacing. Yeah, I'm all for upgrading everything, but a girl's gotta pay the rent too.

[Galcobar]

And then there's the expensive possibility -- bad bushing/bearing in the suspension arms. Those are US$90 each, and there's four of them. Typically, it's the No. 2 suspension arms (the rear arms of the set), but can be the No. 1. Unfortunately, you have to replace the entire arm.

If you're replacing the struts, then you'll want to replace your strut mounts (the mounts take as much punishment as the struts). As noted, replacing the end links and sway bar bushings at the same time is a good idea.

Replacing the No. 2 suspension arms on the sixth-gen is relatively easy; the No. 1 arms are much more difficult, as you have to lower the gas tank to get the bolts out on that side.

Try this test -- get the car up on a lift with the wheels hanging loose. Stick a pry bar in at the point where the suspension arms connect to the suspension member (the brace bolted to the underside of the chassis) and pry at it. If the arm moves and produces a pop/clunk, you've located your problem.