Finally, I have the driver, or someone else, repeat the action until I can track it to a particular section of the vehicle (what you hear from the driver's seat is not neccesarily where it's coming from I've found problems from a back seat that I swore were in the front when I was driving). as all kinds of different things), note the exact type of circumstances under which it occurs (speed, powertrain load, chassis dynamics, road surface, ect.). Once we've identified the noise in question (people tend to identify creaks, rattles, bumps, scrapes, ect. The best method I've found for tracking things is to have the customer drive while I sit in the passengers seat with a stethescope. Plancette covered almost every possibility I could think of (jeez your good), but covering them all can be a slow and frustrating procedure. The best process is to narrow down the area the noise is located and the type of noise (metal on metal, plastic on metal, etc).
It could still be something simple like a loose light assembly, loose bumper, or even something under the dash. These are just a few of the common many items. Inspect the engine mount that attaches to that support.Įxhaust- rap and shake on the exhaust for noises or play.Ĭontrol arm bushings- visual inspection for cracked bushings or off-centered positioning. The noise would be present or you will see the engine jump up or down.Ĭenter engine support cross member (radiator support to center body)- Check the bolts for torque. Sway bar to body mounts- visually inspect the two body rubber mounts for cracks or damage.Įngine / trans mounts- Apply brakes and rev the throttle in forward and reverse. Sway bar links- would have to wiggle test while the suspension is on the ground (not extended). Springs- would have to be broken or cracked. Strut mounts- loose connection at strut rod to center mount nut, loose connection at strut mount to body outer bolts, or broken rubber in strut mount (almost have take the strut mount out to check this one). Push the boots up and inspect for wetness around the spring area. Struts- usually accompanied by leaking from the shaft seal. Radiator / condenser- visual and wiggle test.Įngine accessory brackets- visual and wiggle all brackets I somewhat remember a MAP sensor bracket attached to the right front strut tower.īrake calipers- will not rattle when braking over bumps wiggle test. Here is a list of some of the most common things I have found from experience. I do not see any technical service bulletins for rattling noises. Depending on the type of noise which is hard to describe via text, the noise could be different items. Usually the best approach is a long visual inspection both under the hood and under the body. Bump rattles can be the hardest to diagnose.