Hello,

I just recently replaced the rear struts in my neon thinking it would take care of this chatter coming from the rear end- it did not. Any thoughts on what it may be? The noise sounds like a squeaky vibration/chatter only when I hit bumps.

 

It's only coming from the passenger side. The car rides great, but the sound is pretty gnarly. When I replaced the struts, I made sure everything was tight.

 

It could be bad rear control arm bushings. Might want to check those out.

 

Also can check your hub.

 

My car makes the same noise, usually replacing the strut mounts along with the struts is a good idea. That might be your issue.

 

Ah yeah. The strut tophats.

 

-Yeah, I'd definitely replace the strut mounts. I replaced the rear suspension on my Mother-in-law's '92 Toyota Paseo that was sagging and was making all kinds of noises when she was driving. This is what the strut mount is supposed to look like.






-And this is what it was like when I pulled it from the car. Now I doubt that yours are this bad, but if the bearing plate wears out, you'll get some squeaking and knocking when going over bumps. Especially if you're turning into a parking lot.








L8R,
Matt

 

The good 'ol rust-belt states! That's crazy!

 

-You better believe it! They use more salt on the roads here than McDonald's does on all of their french fries! This is the strut when I pulled the whole unit out. I showed her this and said "I think I found your problem!" Her jaw just about hit the floor.



L8R,
Matt

 

Thanks all so much for the replies. Now the sound has evolved into a cracking/popping and I'm quite sure its coming from up inside the wheel well. I'll do the sway bar bushings first since they are only $15 for a set at autozone. If that doesn't help, I'll try the strut mounts.

Thanks again!