Front Stabilizer Bushings - Creaking/Popping Noise
No.: TSB-01-33A-001DATE: February, 2001
MODEL: See Below
SUBJECT:
FRONT STABILIZER BUSHING NOISE
(IMPROVED BUSHINGS)
PURPOSE
This bulletin contains instructions for diagnosing and repairing a creaking noise caused by the front suspension stabilizer bushings.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Symptom
Customers may complain of a creaking, popping or metallic clanging noise in the front suspension.
This condition may occur at low speeds, while braking hard or accelerating briskly from a stop.
Cause
This noise may be caused by the front stabilizer bar moving around inside the front stabilizer bushings. The stabilizer bushings may not have sufficient lubrication qualities in the bushing material, which can allow the bar to make noises as it moves.
Remedy
To remedy this condition, use the procedures in this bulletin to first test the vehicle to determine if the bushings are the cause of the noise. If the bushings are the cause, replace them with the new bushings that have increased lubrication properties.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
1999-2000 Galant (All)
2000 Eclipse (All)
2001 Eclipse GT & Eclipse Spyder GT (V-6) built up to December 5, 2000
2001 Eclipse RS/GS & Eclipse Spyder GS (L4) built up to December 8, 2000
2001 Galant DE/ES/LS built up to October 4, 2000
2001 Galant GTZ built up to December 5, 2000
PROCEDURE
Be sure to record the conditions present when the customer recognizes the abnormal sound (braking, accelerating, while turning, over large bumps, etc.). Verify the noise so that after repairs are made, the repairs can be checked for effectiveness.
If the exact location of the noise cannot be determined, first check the installation of all suspension related components, including the front crossmember, for abnormal wear, damaged parts, and installation torque.
NOTE:
Refer to the appropriate Service Manual when disassembling or assembling any suspension part, and when inspecting the tightening torque of any suspension parts.
1. Raise the vehicle on a lift or hoist.
2. Detach both ends of the stabilizer bar from each of the end links to remove the preload from the stabilizer bushings.
3. Wrap or tape the ends of the stabilizer bar to prevent contact with any suspension or body parts.
4. Lower the vehicle, removing it from the hoist/lift. Carefully drive the vehicle in a manner that duplicates the driving condition where the noise was originally heard. If the noise is eliminated, the bushings are the likely cause.
5. Return the vehicle to the hoist. Referring to the appropriate service manual, replace the stabilizer bushings with the new increased-lubricant parts. For part numbers, refer to the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.
6. Reconnect the stabilizer bar to the end links.
7. Road test the vehicle to verify the noise is eliminated.
PARTS INFORMATION
The new, increased-lubricant bushings are listed in the table shown.
WARRANTY INFORMATION