2004 SAAB 9-3 Knocking and Clanking Noise

TSAR141

MEMBER
2004 SAAB 9-3
2.0L
4 CYL
TURBO
FWD
AUTOMATIC
155,000 MILES

I have a 2004 SAAB 9-3 2.0T my question is I have a knocking and clanking noise coming from the front and rear of my car every time I go over bumps on the road; however if I was to apply the breaks to the car the knocking and clanking noise goes away until I release the breaks. I changed the sway bars, shocks, springs, breaks and disc to the car but it was to no avail because I still have the irritating noise coming from my car. Do you have any advice towards what can be the problem?

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,741 POSTS

The clue here is your observation the noise stops when the brakes are applied. Most commonly that is caused by loose brake pads or missing or broken anti-rattle clips. This is more prevalent when a do-it-yourselfer does a brake job, and is a better suspect when the same problem occurs on two or more wheels.

Worn suspension bushings can cause this too. Braking puts stress on them and can hold them from rattling. An additional symptom often is steering wander related to the alignment changing as the control arms move around.

The best approach is to have the steering, suspension, and brake systems inspected at a tire and alignment shop. The people there are experts at finding the causes of noises and vibrations. They will "read" the tire wear patterns too for clues.