it's not the hood hinges

[dowlings3]

I'm searching for a rattle. Is it possible its in the stearing linkage anywhere. I only hear the sound when I go over bumps. No loose parts in the suspension. Help please!

Matt

[rodeo02]

Matt, my 2002 does this over wash-board / rough surfaces as well. Everything is tight, but I think I've traced it to some play in the pinion gear housing for the steering. New shocks helped this quite a bit. I put monroe sensa-tracs on mine.
G/luck
Joel

[rheteric]

Mine has the same "rattle". I was concerned that the previous owner might have been in an unrecorded fender bender, but after hearing that Joel's Rodeo has the same behavior, I feel much better. Thanks Joel! .......(sarcasm implied)

[iskiuskiweski]

I just bought a used 98 Rodeo and heard a rattling noise when I run over rough roads, it sounded like it was comming from underneith, but upon further inspection found that it was the center caps on the wheels. I plan to install some rubber washers to hold them tight to the wheel this week, I will let you know if this cures the problem. For some reason the center caps are held on with the lug nuts but not tight enough to keep them from rattling, probably to prevent them from crushing the plastic caps.

[surferfletch]

My Rodeo had an annoying body squeak whenever I traveled over rough terrain. I just accepted it as poor fit and finish on the Rodeo. It seemed to come from the hood area. I drove it that way for 5 years. Then last week on vacation, my brother in law suggested I adjust the rubber bumpers on either side of the hood. They just turn up and down. With time they may have just rotated their way back in. I can't believe I didn't figure this simple solution out! It also solved the problem of my hood latch not letting go when I popped the lever. Hope this helps someone!