Front Suspension Noise
 

I've searched the site and haven't found much on suspension issues - either not common or I missed something in the way I searched.

2011 G37x, 67k miles

Noise from front end when going over small bumps, for instance road that's had multiple potholes filled (IA), residential streets, etc. Can't hear anything when hitting larger bumps and the it seems I can eliminate (or minimize) the noise by lightly applying the brakes. It's a rattle/clunk noise, almost sounds like upper strut mounts but seems to be from lower in the suspension.

Had it inspected and was told front stabilizer bar end links. Looking online these seem to be common and the shop indicated there was back and forth play in the link but nothing up and down - advised the noise would be caused when the wait of the vehicle was on the suspension. Advised all ball joints, etc. were tight and allowed me under the vehicle to look at the play in the links.

Does this sound like an accurate diagnosis? The replacements aren't expensive ($54 each for OEM, $35 each for aftermarket) and I believe this is a fairly straight forward job with car jacks, torque wrench and a little time. Vehicle wouldn't need alignment afterwards.

Thoughts or input?

-Eric

It's not a hard job, that $50 price sounds about right tor OEM links, might consider Moog End links (not 100% sure they have an AWD application though).

Thank you!

Looking for input as to whether this is an accurate diagnosis. Realize I can't be 100% sure until the parts are replaced but don't want to replace them if they aren't the root cause.

-Eric

Hard to diagnose via the internet, if the shop seems like a well run place and you've had previous good experience there I would trust their opinion, and it sounds like a reasonable analysis.

It's the end links the rubber boot tore open letting grease out so it clicks when you go over bumps slow

Thank you! Sounds like you have experience with this issue.

Job seems pretty easy so I'll do it in the next 2 weeks or so.

-Eric

End links - a big pain when failing.

However, they are VERY easy to install. MOOG FTW. Greasable is good if you want - otherwise get the ones without the nips. :BOOBIES:

Almost wish I opted out of them due to the service I had to give them. BUT - it was good in the long run. #rantover.

Takes more time to lift car and remoce wheel then it is to replace end links

Sway bar links were replaced last fall and the sway bar bushings a week or so ago with Moog. Front end it still clunky and I'm afraid I'll need to start replacing anything rubber to make it sound like a $40k car should.

However, I'm still chasing a metallic rattle (like a loose hubcap) over smaller bumps and I can make it go away by lightly engaging the brakes. Think I traced it back to both calipers:

-Eric

Even new endlinks go bad make sure they didn't loosen up

The noise I'm making with the caliper is essentially what I'm hearing over bumps.
-Eric

Sway bar endlinks will click when you drive over bumps either bc the nut is loose or they are torn

OP noted that lightly riding the brakes over bumps stops the rattle, ergo it's an issue with brakes or something attached to the hubs, like dust shields.

People forget to tightened the endlinks while car is back on weight after new one is put in