Lately, with 114k miles on the odo, I've had a problem with suspension clunking in the front on sharp bumps. Not really with deep potholes or high bumps, just the really abrupt potholes and bumps. It just seems as if the suspension isn't quite absorbing the impact and the impact goes up into the body with a clunking noise (I apologize for my lack of noise vocabulary, but that's exactly what it sounds like)...

I thought the problem would be solved when, several weeks ago, I replaced my stock shocks, struts and springs with the ever-popular Eibach/Tokico combo. However, even on the soft 2F/3R setting, the clunk persists. My bump-stops are cut, so that isn't an issue. I did not replace the upper shock/strut mounts or bearings when I put in the Illuminas.

What's causing this noise?

 

I would think it is the strut mounts.

 

So should I replace the entire strut mount, or just the strut mount bearing?

 

If it makes noises when you turn the wheel it is likely the bearing(doesn't seem to be your problem)

I would replace both depending on how old they are. For a 15 dolla part it is no biggie.

 

$15? I'd like to know where I can get one for that price!

http://www.car-stuff.com/carparts/in...409425916.html
These guys quote $35 for a strut mount kit, and I've checked out some other online car part dealers that quote similar prices.

 

could be cv joints

 

Clunking seems more of a ball joint issue. Strut mounts are more or less a tapping noise I believe.