SUV Owner Problem:

My 1994 Chevy Suburban C1500 would rattle when I drive over bumps. The noise is more pronounced on the front right side tire. The noise does not go away even when I step on the brakes. I checked the front suspension since this truck is over 11 years old. I found both upper and lower ball joints to be tight and OK. The stabilizer bar end support rubber grommets were loose so I replaced both sides. I also took out both front outer and inner bearings and repacked them with grease. After doing all of these, the noise and rattle were still there. The front shocks do not leak but looks worn and old. I want to replace it but I am not sure if this will fix the problem, suggestion?

SUV Tire Advisor:

I think you are in the right track in replacing the front shocks but you also check them by looking at the lower mounting support. If you look closer to the lower support shock bushings, it has rubber bushing that is fastened with 2 bolts. Make sure the rubber bushing is not loose and you can check it by prying it. It should not move and must be tight. Otherwise replace the shock assembly on both sides.

The same applies on the top mounting support of the front shocks. The shock has stud bolt on its upper mounting which is also held by rubber bushing and retainer. Once the stud bolt becomes loose, it will have the same affect as the noise you described. Just go ahead and replaced those front shocks and at the same time, try checking the front suspension coil spring for cracks and worn out spring rubber insulator mounts. A defective front suspension coil spring will also have the same problem as shown by these symptoms.

Notes:

When in doubt, bring your SUV to an authorized Chevy dealer shop to make sure your tire problem is fixed.