Front End Suspension sounds like a slight knocking?

2004 GMC ENVOY

250,000 MILES • 4.2L • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

DADDYSBOBBAGURL

MEMBER
28 POSTS

I been hearing a noise sounds like a slight knocking sound coming from the passenger side front end when i go over bumps. I have checked the ball joints and the lower control arm. The control arm has about 1/8 inch play in the bushings. Does it need to be changed if that much slack is there? And there is a shaft that goes into the transmission that the CV Axle hooks on to. When I go at low speeds I can hear the shaft knock. Is this normal or what can I do to fix this problem? Thank you for your time in helping me out.

Sep 3, 2026 at 9:12 PM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,381 POSTS

Sure, I can help you, to me there are two main causes of this kind of noise, either the sway bar bushings are bad or a strut itself is bad, can you see any leaks at the strut shaft seal? If so this is a sign the strut needs to be replaced. To check the sway bar bushing you might need to remove them or use a pry bar to work the links while checking for play. This guide may help as well.

https://2carpros.com/articles/popping-noise/

Please upload a short video of the noise if you can.

Sep 5, 2026 at 8:27 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,381 POSTS

Here is what I am tanking about for the sway bar mounts.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
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Sep 5, 2026 at 8:30 AM

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