Yes, I know, I know, a bunch of threads on this topic. This is why I'm starting a new one. I have read those threads and just about replace everything on those lists. Here is the problem:

When I accelerate or brake quickly I get a front end pop/thump. Sounds louder when I'm making a right turn or reverse with the tires aiming right. Once I start going no more noise. I brake, thump. I accelerate, thump and so on.

Here is what I have changed and its a long list:

1) Rear transmission mount and upper transmission (front transmission mount looks really good)

2) sway bar links (left and right)

3) sway bar bushings

4) Right lower control arm (I change the left one about 4 years ago and it still looks good), rear bushing on it was really bad.

5) Front brakes and rotors (just in case), they needed to be changed

6) Wheel hub bearings (Left and right), right one was roaring on me

7) Motor mount

8) Tie Rod Ends (Left and Right)

9) front struts

10) left and right cv axle

If you can think of any place I can throw money at this car just let me know. Like I said, I have gone through the threads multiple times.

Thanks,

Thumping in CA.

 

There is a trouble shooting link in my sig.

What about the struts/strut bearings?

Sounds to me like the LCA bushings.

What model HHR?

 

Yes, that bulletin was one of the resources I used to problem solve.

I changed the lower control arm and it came with new bushings. I also used a large screwdriver to see if I can get some play and they were very firm.

As far as the struts, I don't get the noise when over bumps. How can I test to see if the struts or the bearings are bad?

 

If one of the struts is 4 years old it is under suspicion. Your description matches my experience with bad bushings. Those thing should be replaced in pairs.

You have to get in and get a good look at them, some say to use a large srewdriver to pry on them looking for movement. Your description would make me bet there is no bushing left.

If your struts have never been replaced they have been bad for a long time.

Is it definitely in the front? There are control arm bushings in the rear suspension too and shocks and hubs.

 

Sway bar bushings? Yes, I changed those already.

Yes, definitely in the front. I've had someone drive the car as I'm outside and I definitely hear it from the front.

How can I test the struts for that sound? I changed them about 4 years ago.

 

Check the axle nuts for correct torque and the lca bushing bolts for correct torque, and those mounts bolts too.

 

Ok, checked the torque with a digital torque tool and still have the sound. Am going to change the struts and will let you know what happens.

 

Ok, changed the struts, spring, and strut mount and guess what? The sound is still there. The sound definitely sounds like it is coming from the front, right.

 

"You have to get in and get a good look at them, some say to use a large srewdriver to pry on them looking for movement. Your description would make me bet there is no bushing left."

 

The right lower control arm is new.

Could it be the cv axle? Only thing on the right side I have not replace. Would that make a thump, pop sound with no other issues?

I don't hear any clinking sounds or vibration on the steering.