m3ts1010

Any ideas on common suspension problems with the 03 Acura tl's. I hear a clunking noise over bumps. I saw the ball joint and it's not that. anyone have any idea on what it might be.

3.2TLc

Check all the rubber bushings. Control arms, end links, strut tops ......etc. These are common wear items as the car ages. Also, lowering the suspension puts more stress on parts.

Stephen00TL

Try the away bar end links first it's common problem

Skirmich

mmakam2

put it up on a lift, use a prybar and/or your hands and try moving suspension parts, wheels, shocks anything else, if it has ANY play it could make a clunk, and i agree sway bar end links very common problem.

fsttyms1

what do you mean you "saw" the ball joint and its not that. Did you jack the car up and physically apply pressure on the wheel/knuckle to see if you get play?

The 2 most common issues of clunk over bumps are Ball Joints and the End Links.

jhinton

I had a clunk going over bumps also. I replaced my sway bar bushings and links, and my upper control arm and this fixed the problem. I did all of these even though a mechanic told me they were good. Hope this helps

3.2TLc

So, did you find anything specific that was badly worn enough to cause the clunking sound ?

If just the one side was clunking......the other side can't be too far behind. One good thing about doing it yourself, besides saving labor costs, is that you can compare and buy quality replacement parts at a better price than what a shop would charge you for. Try to get the best bang for the buck, "Moog" makes excellent suspension parts that are actually built better than most "OEM" parts and are built to last with real grease fittings !

412KING

I have also recently experienced a "clunking" sound in my car but it's not when I go over bumps but instead when i pull out or hit the brakes to stop... any ideas? and what are the end links?

3.2TLc

If originating from the front.....could be worn motor mounts.
Check the sway bar ends for play.