Suspension knocking noise

[BHoulis]

I have a 2000 Merc Sable with 44,000 miles ion it that has developed a knocking sound that seems to be coming from the right front suspension area. The noise sounds like someone is giving a tap on the underside of the body or frame member near the shock/strut tower. It is very noticable at lower speeds and it doesn't take much of a bump to make it happen - sometimes just a slight dip in the road will cause the noise. At higher speeds it is somewhat drowned out by road/engine noise but is still there if you listen. I just got it back from the dealer today - they replace the bushings in the plastic swaybar struts, but the noise is still there. They said that the mechanic checked all the suspension components for tightness and that nothing was loose. I have tried to reproduce the noise in my driveway by bouncing the front end and even using a piece of 4x4 and a fulcrum under the wheel and levering the wheel up and down but no luck getting it to happen. Could a bad strut cause this noise? Ant suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, BHoulis

[ai6908]

It can be your sway bar links too, maybe have them checked or the bushing...I have the same problem in my 93 taurus, need to fix it sometime...

[sablebomb]

I had the same symptoms 3 days ago. I went big and replaced my mounts, springs and struts. Guess what....no noise.

[irish30]

Replace the stabilizer link kits before you go after the strut mounts. They are cheaper and I have replaced lots of them at my dealer. Ford has no answers as to why they go so fast.

[moecat1956]

I have noise on driver's side in a 2000 Taurus. It is most noticeable on a rough gravel road. Does not make the noise with the brakes applied. My mechanic argues that it's the brakes.but have replaced almost the entire brake assembly. Also, you can get it to make the noise by putting ur foot on the top of the tire and shaking the car. Any ideas?

[canuckwolf]

A dull thumping sound when going over minor bumps in the road could very well be caused by the strut mount bearing. Does your car make the sound when you turn the steering wheel?

[moecat1956]

Originally Posted by canuckwolf

A dull thumping sound when going over minor bumps in the road could very well be caused by the strut mount bearing. Does your car make the sound when you turn the steering wheel?

No there is no noise when turning the steering wheel. The noise happens only on rough surfaces when the brakes are not applied. Weh the brakes are applied there is no noise even on rough road. We have replaced everything in that brake except the caliper. My mechanic argues that since it doesnt happen when the brakes are applied, it is in the brake.