GM Tech Tip: Various Front End Noises On Bumps
The first step is to verify that the noise is from the upper strut mount area. The concern may be on both sides of the vehicle.
Rattle Or Clunk Noise Under Vehicle (Chrysler)
If a customer states that there are rattles or clunks from underneath the vehicle, the outer and inner tie rods may need replaced.
Undercar Trend Watch: Loaded Calipers, Struts, Arms And Knuckles
The main advantage of a loaded, unitized or complete assembly is not the cost of the part, but rather the efficiency it offers the technician and the greater effectiveness of repair it gives the customer. By packing a loaded caliper, strut, control arm or even knuckle into a job, you can create a “win/win” for everyone.
CHRYSLER & JEEP: Compass/Patriot/Caliber Front Suspension Creak or Squeak When Cold
2011-’14 Compass/Patriot 2011-’12 Caliber Condition: The driver may describe creaking or squeaking noises coming from the front suspension. The noise is typically more noticeable during cold temperatures below 40°F. The noise may go away when the temperature warms up. Cause: The front lower rear control arm bushing is making the noise. Remedy: Lubricating the bushing
VIDEO: Modern Air Ride Diagnostics
Andrew Markel shows how servicing air ride has changed over time and what knowledge you will need to better work with modern systems.
Lexus LS460 Air Ride Service (2007-2012)
While the 2007-’12 Lexus LS460 is neither one of the best selling nor most problematic air suspensions of all time, it is probably one of the most difficult systems to diagnose. If you are not familiar with the system operation, you can throw a lot of parts at it without achieving any results.
VIDEO: Shock Wear Maintenance
Andrew Markel goes over what can wear out on a shock assembly and why it is important to check the inside of a shock as well as the outside.
Electronically Adjustable Dampener Diagnosis
Modern suspension systems can read the road and the driver’s intentions to help select the correct amount of dampening force. These systems see the vehicle dynamics through accelerometers and Hall-effect sensors, and they can change settings in milliseconds. Some can even detect potholes and dial up the rebound so the wheel does not drop to the bottom.
VIDEO: Aluminum Suspension Inspection
In most cases, an aluminum component is as strong or stronger than steel or cast iron. But what sets aluminum apart is how it fails. Most aluminum suspension components are extruded or forged, and in some cases, will be heat-treated. If a component has undergone extreme stress, such as a curb strike, the part will most likely crack and break instead of bend. Andrew Markel has a video introduction in which he answers a reader question about threadlocking compound.
Uncovering The Causes Of Suspension Noise On BMW Vehicles
One of the more difficult aspects of automotive diagnosis and repair is finding and correcting “noises.” Though not all noises come from the suspension, most of the movement in any car that can cause noise is related to the movement of the suspension, or other parts connected to it. Of course, everything is somehow connected to the suspension and from there to the road.
Cadillac Escalade Autoride System
GM’s Autoride comes standard on the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade EXT. Autoride is an electronic suspension control system that independently controls each of the four shock absorbers in order to control the vehicle ride characteristics. The electronic suspension control (ESC) system is capable of making these changes within milliseconds.
Jeep Tech Tip: Proper Torque Of Mounting Bolts
A frequent concern of technicians is that customers complain of rattling noises after the rear shocks have been replaced on 1999-2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles.
