A Clunking Noise when I hit a bump

[x_skaven_x]

I got a 92 GP LE and everytime i hit a bump something in the rear clunks...i checked to make sure my trunk was fully closed..the muffler isnt moving .. i tried wiggleing it after it cooled down..the tires arent flat...they may be low..i dont have a pressure gage untill my mom gets home with the van...could a tire a little low on air be the problem? this came up out of nowhere...the noise i mean.

[x_skaven_x]

well...its not that the tires were low..which they are were...the back two by 5psi. The sound seems to be coming from the drivers side in the rear. and when u bounce the shocks while its park you can hear the noise as well..its too dark now to crawl underneath and take a look. but does anyone have some suggestions as to what i should look at?

[triplethreat]

I don't know what it is for sure but there is not much back there for it to be. I would check the shocks make sure they are tight. they may be loose and have some play and that may be causing your problem. Also you might want to take someone else out with you and have them listen while you bounce the car. This might give you an idea of exactly where the noise is.


Dan

[richtazz]

There are three things to check. The first is the upper strut mounts. The second is the little rubber bushings at the end of the transverse leaf springs where they meet the rear spindles. The third is the rear stabilizer bar bushings, both at the frame and at the struts (if your car has a rear stabilizer bar). All three of these will cause a clunk when the rear suspension is moved.

[Langning]

My old 96 Cavaliar did that for years until I replaced the 4 struts. This year I changed the front struts when I heard the same on my 01 GPGT. Chances are your struts fail and the car is bounced up/down too much that the spring bottom out...

[x_skaven_x]

are struts expensive? and what should i be lookin for on the struts to see if they are broken?

[x_skaven_x]

also is it dangerous to contine driving the car with these like that?

[Langning]

I don't think it is dangerous to drive with a bad strut as I had driven my 96 Cav until last year...

Struts are about $50 and less a piece. If you have the right wrenches, a 4-lb hammer, and rent a pair of spring compressors, and a good buddy who can lend you a hand, it is very simple job.

Having a 92 car, you may find that you need new strut mounts and new spring, they do add up but it is still far less than what the repair shop want from you. Once you do it one time, it becomes a life-long skill and you will never pay for brake or suspension repairs...