I've had a rattle in the right front of my 2007 LS with 5speed for a couple of years, I've replaced the entire front suspension and steering assembly trying to solve the problem. I believe I have finally figured it out; there is play where the inner spline of the CV axle goes into the transmission, I've replaced the axle twice in the last year thinking it may have been machined incorrectly but it didn't solve the problem. There is no leakage at the seal either. Has anyone else experienced this issue? I'm now thinking I need to drop the transmission and try replacing the output bearing and any related parts but I'm a little concerned about parts availability since it's a 2007 and most of these cars are automatics. It still shifts fine and there are no unusual noises coming from the car except for the constant rattling over any rough or uneven surface, everything on the drivers side is tight and silent. Any ideas or suggestions would be awesome. Thank you.

 

Loose bumper cover, fender, wheel well liner ?

 

Thanks for the reply, I basically stripped the front of the car at one point, fender liner, bumper skin, grill and about everything I could and still leave it drivable and it didn't help, that's when I discovered the up and down and lateral play/movement with the axle in the transmission. Guess I'll wait until something fails or when I need a clutch and drop the transmission and hope for the best. If you or anyone knows of a good video or description on transmission removal it would sure help, it will be the first time on this car. Thanks again.

 

I had an HHR that came to me with cheapo struts, and one would rattle with every little bump for the first mile or two.

 

I've replaced the struts, links, ball joints, etc, twice now in the last two years thinking that was the problem but it didn't help, I guess no one else has experienced this problem but thanks for the suggestions. Something will eventually break or fall apart then I can hopefully repair it.