My wifes neon (2001-96,000-all original-'cept 1 tie rod end) has developed a
noise in right rear. sounds to me like the top of the shock. Happens mainly
when going straight over the slightest bumps. I took off the wheel last night
and everything looked good and seemed tight. pulled the carpet back in
trunk and top of strut seemed ok too.

Any suggestions for determining the source????? Thanx in advance!!

 

Check the top of the shock by feel when you are bouncing the appropriat corner. See if if you feel it then.

Sounds like strut mounts or struts.

Also Check your sawybar endlinks make sure they are tight.

 

Good thinkin! I did the swaybar, while I had the wheel off. Oddly enough, after I pulled the wheel and checked it out, the noise has disappeared. Even though I did nothing. It'll return and I'll check again. thanx!