when i go over bumps theres a really bad noise coming from my wheelwell. as far as I know (for the last ~50,000mi) I havent changed/repaired the struts or strut mounts or basically anything to do with my suspension.. any suggestions on where to start diagnosing the new noise before i run out and get new struts?..

1995 GLE Maxima 130k miles

 

well you can start by telling us what the noise sounds like. is it a groan, clunk, bang etc..........

 

its a clunk from both wheel wells its pretty loud too

 

A clunk... sounds to me like a worn out upper strut mount bearing.

 

Yes I agree. I had the same sound in my Jag. I had to un-bolt the strut bar and replace with a new rubber grommet. The old one has completely crumbled away. Sounds great now.

 

I have the same problem rite now on my car as well. Does it sound like a crunching sound? Like a spring is getting pushed together very un-smoothly? That's what i hear. Usually i get it when i go over speed bumps or when i'm going on a turn kinda fast. I've taken my car to a couple of mechanics, and all of them say that it's fine, but it isn't because of this stupid sound. Anyone know where i can go to get it fixed?

 

I wouldnt describe mine as a spring though; mine sounds like the whole damn car is gonna fall apart when i hit a crease in the pavement or something not all that obstructive

 

sounds like either your strut bearings need to be lubed or replaced.