Rattle in front end -- like someone got married and strung cans to the car
 

As the title says. This is a 2011 HHR LT, and it's not a subtle sound. It occurs when running over small rough patches in the road. It sounds like it's coming from the right front, but I'm not sure. I'm not good at working on cars. Took it to Firestone and they were useless.

Based on my searches on this forum, I'm thinking maybe sway bar links?

Any ideas how to get this diagnosed and fixed, and the possible cost?

Check my signature for a link to how to diagnose the different noises these buggys can make.

Things that make noises, like those tie rod ends, upper engine mount, hubs, worn brake pads, strut bearing plates, steering rack pinion worn Swaybar bushings, LCA’s rear bushings, broken air filter box bracket.
These are all places to investigate. Some shops will try to get you to spend a lot of money, most times you can fix it yourself.

How was Firestone useless? Wanted money to look? Didn't hear anything? Quoted $$$$$$.
There are other shops.

No, they were reasonable about everything -- only charged me for an oil change. They just couldn't diagnose the problem. They thought I should take it to a body shop, and they thought parts of the body were loose. I don't think that's the case. I'm actually starting to think the sound is all in the hubcap.

Have you considered removing the hub caps? And the front bumper cover if it’s not installed correctly can rattle. So can a loose fuse box

If something is loose enough to make that much noise you should be able to find it with your hands. Is it impossible to touch things? If the engine is off there is no danger involved.

It might be helpful if you give us the mileage ...

SF

I would remove the wheel covers one at a time so if it is the problem you will know which wheel cover it is.
Also be very careful when putting them back on that you do not over tighten the bolts.
Use the same tightening pattern that you use on wheels.
Check the condition of the gasket attached to each cover and make sure they are in place when you install.
SF

get some weight on front bumper push up on down sharply then
jacks & enough jack stands to lift right front for shimmy , pull & push may render a clue