I've done a lot of research about what makes the "birds in the trunk" sound. I replaced my rear shocks, shock mounts, and all the bushing and washers that go to the shocks but still it squeaks. The body shop that did my work said it may be the passenger side trailing arm bushing. To test his theory he drenched it in WD-40 (I know its bad for rubber parts but if thats the problem I'll just replace with ES bushings) and it quit squeaking for a day or two. Anyone else had this problem before? Also, how can I tell if the bushing in question has leaked out and is worn?

 

Haven't had the problem on the trailing arms, but it is easy to tell when the busing is no good. It is heavily cracked, or compressed. If you loosen the nuts/bolts and see the bushing not expand as you loosen then it needs to be replaced.

 

Ok, I'll try that. Have you ever heard of the squeaking I mentioned ever caused by that bushing?

 

Did you check the spare tire well for the birds?






Any bushing can cause squeaking. The mechanic's test was valid, but you may want to confirm on your own.

 

I did at first, and the main suspect was that piece that screws into the car that holds the tire in place. But even with it removed from the car it made that sound. I just went outside to check out that bushing. Is is sealed or is it visible from the outside? If it can be seen from the outside it may be very "shriveled up".

 

The bushing is fairly obstructed by the mount tabs and may require removal for adequate inspection. I wish I could help more.

 

After further research, maybe if I can find a rear beam with the arms attached that have decent bushings may be an easier route. No wonder Nissan doesn't sell these bushings separately.

 

Many manufacturers don't sell individual bushings; especially press fit bushings, which I assume the trailing arm bushings are. You can try another rear beam or the energy suspension replacements. I'm uncertain of the validity, but I think the black ES bushings contain graphite making them more wear resistant.

 

it would make things easier to buy used trailing arms, and the es bushings, press out the old bushings and press in the new bushings, then swap the trailing arms.

I'm thinking of going this route in the spring.

 

I just hope my local junkyard(s) are willing to sell me the arms separately and not the entire rear end. Here's to hoping. Merry Christmas all.

 

try a pick n pull junk yard. They usually sell you anything if you take it off the car

 

My car does the same thing, but its actually the brakes that are squealing (exactly like birds). Pads are totaly shot. Might check your's, too...

 

What a sh1tty design...really all bushings should be somewhat easy to replace. It is a relatively normal wear item, especially for high mileage vehicles.

 

I thought it was the brakes at first also. Changed them but didn't make a bit of a difference.

 

I am new here. Have been reading a lot of posts. My 2006 Maxima acts weird when it hits any pothole or sewer cover. The rear suspension slides right or left and looses stability. Took it to the stealership. They replaced right rear right control arm front link (that's what they say) and did four wheel alignment. Charged $415. It is still the same. Can someone help please.

 

You might have better luck posting in the 6th generation maxima (2004-2008) forum.

 

Not sure what makes that sound. i've heard it but not too not on a regular basis.

 

check the torque on all rear suspension components, I would check the rear bearings first!

 

Anything new on this? Ill be putting some brakes on and would love to get my car to stop that damn sound. Is it basucaly just going over all the bushings? Mine will slightly squeak even when I close the driver door.