SureTrack Community Fix: Noisy Caliber

Real Fixes from the SureTrackĀ® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair orders and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is currently available free with the purchase of a current Snap-onĀ® diagnostic software version.

Noisy suspension can sometimes be hard to diagnose as it’s hard to recreate the noise on the lift. SureTrack community member macdonald.motorworks had a Dodge Caliber in the shop with noisy rear suspension that sounded like bad struts. They posed the question to the community, and with the help of fellow community member lanpro1 and others, they were able to resolve the issue quickly.

The following Community Fix summarizes the interaction between members of the community that led to the solution.

Vehicle
2011 Dodge Caliber Express 2.0L

Title
Noise from rear of vehicle, replaced toe links and lower control arms.

Complaint
Customer complains of noise coming from rear of vheicle while driving.

Diagnostic Steps Performed/Parts Replaced
Test drove vehicle and rear end of car squeaks and crunches. Not dependent on speed. 190,000km on the vehicle. Shocks/springs look OEM. Bounce test reveals a fair bit of travel in springs and shocks, as well as noise. All 4 hubs seem fine using usual tests. I’m planning on replacing the shocks and springs with quick-struts. Just wondering if anyone has any experience with this car. Seems like there are a lot of similar complaints “out there”.

Best Answer from Community Member lanpro1
Check the toe links and the lower control arm bushings. A lot more likely for noise than the struts.

Cause
Worn toe links and lower control arm bushings.

Correction
Remove and replace both toe links and lower control arms. Rear end now all nice and quiet.


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About the Author

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor is the SureTrack Community Administrator and a Senior Applications Specialist at Mitchell 1 with over 25 years of experience with electronic repair data systems. Nick previously worked in the automotive dismantling and engine rebuilding industries.