2004 Grand Prix GT suspension clunk

[McVaaahhh]

Hey everybody, noob here in Colorado with a question on suspension that I'm hoping you guys can help me out with.

My fiancee has a 2004 Grand Prix GT with about 45k on it. We've noticed a low speed clunk coming from the front end (i believe) when going over any kind of bumps like a small speed bump.

I'm sure it happens at high speed but I think there's too much other noise to hear it. It's not really loud, but definitely noticeable. I can't really tell which side it's coming from but I'm certain it's coming from the front end.

Worth noting that the car was in an accident about 6 months ago and the engine cradle was replaced. The noise just started about a week ago when we got new tires put on. I checked the torques and they were all tight so I'm thinking it's just a coincidence.

Thanks for the help!
--Brian

 

[Sabrewings]

Could be loose cradle bolts.

 

[stlmo_gtp]

i had this happen to me due to a lose craddle bolt so i would start there but my sister has the same noise on her car so i started with the basic's checking Tie rod's, Ball Joint's, and then i checked the strut and that was what the problem was so if all the craddle bolts are tight you may want to check the strut, my buddy also has the same problem i keep telling him to change them but he never does

 

[McVaaahhh]

Thanks for the ideas.

I guess I'll crawl under there with a torque wrench and have at it.

Any ideas where to get a pdf manual, or otherwise get the torque specs for that car?

Thanks again!

 

[UR LOSN]

The cradle bolts seem like a good idea to check.

other than that the 04+ have a quick fix for the steering shaft. it likes to clunk a bit if it is worn in....

other than that front suspension....tie rod ends, sway bar end links/bushings....

let us know

 

[JCG's-GTP]

Enlighten me on the 04+ steering shaft please. Maybe thats what the annoying noise is on mine

 

[UR LOSN]

the steering shaft is telescoping....and will wear metal to metal. eventually the telescoping joint will get sloppy. This will cause a slight clunk in the front end steering, minor bumps, etc. GM's quick fix is a tube of grease. This will fill in the worn in spaces and lubricate it at the same time...and trust me when I say this..it is night and day difference.

fastKatt and I tackled this a few months ago. it is REALLY simple. you have to lift up the boot covering the steering shaft on the rack..this is best done by going through the drivers side front wheel well. the bolt is a 11mm, just pull it out, then go under the dash and loosen up the nut, as it has a locking bolt. then just pull it off the rack and it just slides right out...

I have GM's instructions on this " quick fix"...I will see if I cant find a scanner and just scan it in. I had thought I made a How To for it, but I guess I didnt.... prob just in my head..lol

 

[JCG's-GTP]

Thats sounds so much like the noises I hear. Tyvm when/if it ever stops raining I'm gonna give it a look see!

 

[UR LOSN]

if you have any questions ask away. or my cell is 815-566-0052....if you need any help then and there.