rear end squeak

[scully9-5]

This is a somewhat odd problem that seems to get compounded by the cold. Lately I have noticed whenever I go over a large bump I get a fairly loud speaking sound coming from my rear end. The suspension seems to be in good shape based on the "push down on the car and it dosen't bounce" test.

The strangest part is that when we had the couple of warm days last week, the noise didnt seem quite as bad. The car is running great other wise, and I would love to figure out what is making this sound.

[MacNoob]

Originally Posted by scully9-5

Lately I have noticed whenever I go over a large bump I get a fairly loud speaking sound coming from my rear end.

This can be caused by insufficient fiber in your diet, or alternatively worn longitudinal link (trailing arm) bushings.

[scully9-5]

Originally Posted by MacNoob

This can be caused by insufficient fiber in your diet, or alternatively worn longitudinal link (trailing arm) bushings.

Hmmm I'll have to try the fiber, seems like the cheaper fix. Perhaps some bran....

Whats the price on changing out the bushings? Possible DIY, or is it better left to a pro?

[MacNoob]

You can replace the bushings with poly bushings yourself:

http://photo.platonoff.com/Auto/2007..._Arm_Bushings/

To replace with a stock type bushing, you need to remove the trailing arm entirely (this is a good opportunity to adjust rear wheel camber via shims if necessary) and take the arm to a hydraulic press.

[scully9-5]

Thanks for the info. I will have to give this a try on the next warm day we get around here.

[MacNoob]

Go out while it's cold and get someone to bounce the car while you lay on the ground and listen for the squeak. In my case it was obviously the trailing arm bushings, and they were badly toasted when I removed them at 60k or so miles.

[toxicavenger]

if they aren't wore out you can try to spray some white lithium grease on them to quite them down. fiber doesn't come in the spray form either!

[scully9-5]

Originally Posted by toxicavenger

if they aren't wore out you can try to spray some white lithium grease on them to quite them down. fiber doesn't come in the spray form either!

Spray fiber, now there's a milion dollar idea.

I am going to check them out this weekend to see what the situation is. I'll keep you guys updated. Thanks for the info.

[J-Tim]

Originally Posted by toxicavenger

if they aren't wore out you can try to spray some white lithium grease on them to quite them down. fiber doesn't come in the spray form either!

Sorry for a what might be a silly question, but how do I know if bushes worn out or not, without taking the whole thing apart ?

[MacNoob]

Originally Posted by J-Tim

Sorry for a what might be a silly question, but how do I know if bushes worn out or not, without taking the whole thing apart ?

You have 60k miles or more.
You have ride/handling complaints related to the rear end of the car bouncing on bumps.
You have ruled out the weak, fast-wearing rear shocks.
You can identify them as the source of a squeak when someone bounces the car (get on the ground next to them, the sound is obvious).

[duramax2002]

An old 4 wheel drive trick is use non stick spray like pam. I have been told it will hold up longer on the bushings??? Not sure if fact or fiction??

[J-Tim]

Originally Posted by MacNoob

You have 60k miles or more.
You have ride/handling complaints related to the rear end of the car bouncing on bumps.
You have ruled out the weak, fast-wearing rear shocks.
You can identify them as the source of a squeak when someone bounces the car (get on the ground next to them, the sound is obvious).

Mine's 120k kms and I think the rear shocks have already been replaced before I got the car as they'd be gone by now.

There's a bit of a bounce on bumpy roads, but I guess that's just a natural thing.

I do get a bit of a squeak, but that (I think) is coming from the front.