Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Struts or Shock Absorbers Noisy

Use the following steps in order to inspect the struts:
1. Inspect all of the mountings for proper torque. A loose mounting may cause noise.
2. If all mountings are intact, bounce the vehicle in order to isolate the suspected unit.
3. Ride in the vehicle with the owner in order to be sure that you understand the complaint.

Use the following steps in order to inspect the shock absorbers:
1. If one of the rear shocks is noisy, support the rear axle in order to unload the shock mounts.
2. Disconnect the lower mounting of the suspected shock.
3. Quickly push the shock all of the way in, then pull the shock all of the way out.

Hearing a hissing noise while completing this procedure is normal.

4. Detect other objectionable noises by stroking the shock. If any sound other than a hissing noise is heard, replace the shock.