1997 Chrysler Intrepid Clattering sound on passenger side

WAUBESA123

MEMBER
1997 CHRYSLER INTREPID
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
12,600 MILES

I have a '97 Intrepid with just over 126,000 miles. A few months ago, I had problems with the brakes and had brand new front and rear brakes installed, a new c.V. Boot, new sway bar, and two new front tires. I was advised that the rear struts needed replacement along with two new back tires. After a long drive recently, I noticed a strange clattering sound from the right, rear side of the car, especially when driving over bumpy roads. This is more of a 'plastic' than metallic sound that seems to be in the area of the back right tire. Upon inspection, nothing appears to be loose, but I am concerned as to what this might be as it is getting worse.

Monday, May 24th, 2010 AT 1:15 PM

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
34,404 POSTS

Hi waubesa123. Welcome to the forum. There isn't much that can go wrong on the rear, ... At least not much that is serious. Look for a detached dust boot around the upper part of the strut. It's more common for them to come loose on the front and cause an irritating rattle that is very hard to find. They are not included with a new strut. They are purchased separately, but the strut must be removed and disassembled to replace them.

Worn or missing rubber bushings on the rear anti-sway bar links will cause a rattle too. Slop between the strut body and shaft will cause a rattle over bumps. The best clue here is oil leaking from the top of the body where the shaft comes out. In some cases you can feel the movement by holding a fingertip under the plastic boot, on the top of the housing, lightly touching the shaft, then use your other hand to force the top of the tire in and out. It takes some practice to differentiate between the feel of the shaft moving up and down a little, which is normal, and it moving sideways, which means they should be replaced.

Caradiodoc

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Monday, May 24th, 2010 AT 3:52 PM

WAUBESA123

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks, caradiodoc for the info. I did forget to mention that hubby noticed 'something' underneath back right tire - something oily looking. So, it sounds as though this is definitely related to the strut, even if it doesn't need total replacement? The car will be going in for service, no matter what, but it's good to know what we might be dealing with ahead of time. Thanks again.

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Monday, May 24th, 2010 AT 10:57 PM