Rear suspension noise over very small bumps only

Tiny
RCAMAINE
  • MEMBER
  • 2009 NISSAN ARMADA
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 134,500 MILES
Had new (but cheap) shocks replaced in May along with rear rotors and pads. At that time, tech noticed one of the rear coil springs was broken. Replaced both rear springs in June. Now, when driving slow (less than 15 mph), and going over very small bumps, there is noticeable rear rattle. No noise when faster, going over large bumps or on the highway. Tech just replaced rear sway bar bushings, as he said there was some play there. No change in the noise. I am wondering is installing new and better shocks the answer now? Also, possible replace mounting plates as well.
Tuesday, December 4th, 2018 AT 7:46 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I am Danny,

One thing you might want to have checked is the rubber Insulator. This goes in place between the strut body and coil spring. It acts as an Insulator between the two. If it is missing/worn that could be the source of the squeak/rattle. There should be one on top and the bottom. I have attached a picture of the assembly. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Danny-
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Wednesday, December 5th, 2018 AT 12:36 PM
Tiny
RCAMAINE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
There are only shocks on the rear, not struts, and the shock does not go through the coil spring.
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Wednesday, December 5th, 2018 AT 12:53 PM
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello again,

My mistake. Have you had the shop that installed the shocks and sway bar links take a look to see where the noise is coming from? It is possible something was not properly tightened. You should also have them check where the shock mounting points to see if they are worn/loose/cracked. If your vehicle is put up on a hoist they can walk around all the rear suspension components and check for rattles and any other defective/loose components. Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2CarPros.

Danny-

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/whirring-sound

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Friday, December 7th, 2018 AT 8:36 PM

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