I have a 2003, 70,000 mi, 2.7L. I've been noticing a bumping/thumping sound coming from the front suspension while going over rough roads. I checked the ball joints, and the tie rod ends. All look good. Engine mounts are tight. Anyone know a good way to check the strut bushings? Or any other ideas?
Thanx,
KGBrown

 

Have you checked the anti-roll bar bushings and end links?

 

can't seem to see any play in those end links. The noise seems to be getting worse. Any other ideas?
Thanx

 

If not the strut bushing/bearing, it could be the shock absorber in the strut has gone bad. You can try jumping up and down on the front end while someone listens, but it's tough on newer cars to get much oscillation (not much to stand on). The only sure way I know to test these is to remove them from the car. If you have routinely driven rough roads during the 70K, you likely need new struts anyway.