2003 Clunking Noise

My 2003 Galant (4cyl with 60K miles) has this clear, hollow, and solid clunking noise when going 20-40 MPH over bumps. It sounds like it's coming from the left rear wheel. The noise is not as clear (maybe it gets drowned out) at higher speeds. Dealer replaced left rear shock at 30K miles which did nothing. I have read that the "shock bearing" (which sounds like a joke to me) may be at fault. Any comments? You think I can fix this by replacing the entire shock/bearing/mounting assembly?

I don't know about "shock bearings", but worn shock absorber, or suspension bushings could cause this type of problem. I'd have a look at the bushings in the suspension pick up points.

Could it be the exhaust system? A broken hanger could cause the exhaust pipe to hit the body. When the tail pipe has had time to cool down, grab hold of it and give it a good shake to see if it moves around, and makes the noise.

If you bouce the car up and down by hand, while it is sitting still, can you reproduce the noise? You may need to have someone help you to get a good "bounce".

Have you checked in the trunk to make sure nothing is loose, and rolling around? Check inside the spare tire well. Maybe the jack has come loose and is rattling around in there.

Just a few thoughts that come to mind. Hope this helps.

Jimmy

It's not exhaust related, as I have grabbed the pipes and shook them as hard as I can. I also checked inside the trunk for things rolling around. I'm getting the feeling that it has something to do with the shock or the shock mounting hardware, which includes the coil spring and the mounting stuff. Maybe the thing to do is swap right shock assembly for left and see if the noises stay put or move with the shock assembly.

Sounds like a lot of work. But maybe you will find a damaged suspension bushing, or a broken bolt or something. Sounds like you've already looked at all the "easy" stuff. This kind of thing can be a bear to find :(, good luck with it.

Keep us "posted" (no pun intended :))

Jimmy