I've been noticing a popping sound from the left (drivers side) front suspension when turned full and driven off camber (such as out of an inclined driveway onto the street).

Has anyone else noticed this?

Dave

I have heard some suspension sounds on my G8. The curbs here are much different than in Calif. So the suspension travels much greater.

I noticed it on the right side. When I looked I discovered a shipping block still in the coil spring.

damn it!!!! I heard this the past two days and thought it was me being hyper-sensitive

Mine too!

I noticed it on the right side. When I looked I discovered a shipping block still in the coil spring.

Really??
So when you removed it the noise went away then?

Quote:
Originally Posted by V8Mac
I noticed it on the right side. When I looked I discovered a shipping block still in the coil spring.

Really??
So when you removed it the noise went away then?

It did indeed. No trace of any unwanted noise, whatsoever.

The noise was more of a creaking than a popping - supposedly caused by the block rubbing on the spring. Like in DaveN308's case, it also happened when trying to concentrate load (compress spring) on the front corner as the last wheel left on the driveway when backing out.

The other owners in this post have had their G8's a while and would have already become intimate with every inch of their beloved GT's while cleaning on the weekends, etc. I hope sharing my experience would benefit others on the forum. And for DaveN308, if you haven't already done so take a peek at the coil spring on the offending corner - looking for an oblong (plastic?) reddish block locked between the topmost and bottom coils. You'd have to hoist the car - relax spring - and the block would pop right out. I guess its purpose is to prevent the spring from compressing enough to allow the cars to bounce around while shipping(??)

The lesson for me is to try to look over as much of the car when taking delivery and resist the urge to just jump in and drive away. Dealers make mistakes, too.

Whatever the problem, I hope you guys get it sorted soon. Nobody likes to hear their baby in pain.

V8Mac,
That's a good idea. I'll have to get the car up in the air and take a look underneath. I didn't think of the shipping spacers, although when I found the rubber bands and mesh protectors around the front seat belt connectors, I should have looked over the entire car.

Dave

PS: I looked and did not find any spacers in the springs.

There is a more substantial lesson here. The vehicle is supposed to be prepared for delivery. A vehicle that is delivered with the shipping block or blacks in place has not been properly prepared for delivery. If they missed something this obvious, what other more subtle details were missed? I suggest that anyone taking delivery of a G8 that finds the shipping blocks still in the coils return to the delivering Dealer and request the PDI be completed while they observe the process.

The Dealer should also put your G8 on the alignment rack and make any necessary adjustments. Driving around with a shipping blocks in the coils or just one coil has placed unusual loads on the suspension. Checking and correcting the alignment now will eliminate potential tire wear issues and warranty debates later.

I noticed it on the right side. When I looked I discovered a shipping block still in the coil spring.

This is a big deal. This means the vehcile was not properly inspected. Also I would pay ver close attention to the tire pressures. They ae set very high for shipping. makw sure they have been adjusted to match your placard. I would also tell the service manager and GM about this and would insist on having the pre deliv ery inspection redone. If they do no want to do it, then contact Pontiac. There is no reason in the world for them to do this!!

mike
dms

FYI...my front suspension broke when I was turning the corner and slammed me in to the curb costing $10,000 damage. My car has been in the shop waiting on a subframe for 2 months...I only drove it 2 weeks. Someone else on g8gt forum had the samething happen.

That is terrible. Do you know specifically what happened.
How were you driving?
What exactly broke?

FYI...my front suspension broke when I was turning the corner and slammed me in to the curb costing $10,000 damage. My car has been in the shop waiting on a subframe for 2 months...I only drove it 2 weeks. Someone else on g8gt forum had the samething happen.

Whoa...now I'm more concerned about the popping I hear on mine. I need to get it checked out. I have no way of lifting the car except asking the dealer to do it.

The dealer should be more than willing to check it out for you. As Pete mentioned in an earlier thread they do have responsibility upon delivery of the vehicle.

I've been noticing a popping sound from the left (drivers side) front suspension when turned full and driven off camber (such as out of an inclined driveway onto the street).

Has anyone else noticed this?

Dave

GET OUT! I've been hearing it every time I pull out of an incline drive and turn the wheel all the way.. I've been hearing it on my right side though.

DMS has posted a thread for concerns issued by GM.http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2831

I noticed it on the right side. When I looked I discovered a shipping block still in the coil spring.

I have to admit that I don't know what to look for (or even WHERE to look exactly). What color is it again?

Yeah I thought it was my fault that I took the corner to fast and the traction kicked in and made it slide into the curb...but i wasn't really sure what happened just that I was devastated and in shock. Then it starting taking forever to get the front subframe and 2 months have gone by and it was real suspicious then when they did get 1 it was shipped to Colorado by mistake. Well after days of bitching It is being shipped over to me in AZ by Monday and I hope to have the car back Thursday. The repair guy at the dealer said that it looked like the subframe broke before impact do to the location of the break. Anyway I started looking on the internet to see if anyone else had the same problem ( otherwise why the subframe shortage??) and lo and behold I found another G8 owner on G8gt forum that had the same thing happen to him except he was driving straight. I want to get my car back before I report it to the insurance company because I don't want them to get into I'm not paying for it GM is war and I don't get my car back.

Yeah I thought it was my fault that I took the corner to fast and the traction kicked in and made it slide into the curb...but i wasn't really sure what happened just that I was devastated and in shock. Then it starting taking forever to get the front subframe and 2 months have gone by and it was real suspicious then when they did get 1 it was shipped to Colorado by mistake. Well after days of bitching It is being shipped over to me in AZ by Monday and I hope to have the car back Thursday. The repair guy at the dealer said that it looked like the subframe broke before impact do to the location of the break. Anyway I started looking on the internet to see if anyone else had the same problem ( otherwise why the subframe shortage??) and lo and behold I found another G8 owner on G8gt forum that had the same thing happen to him except he was driving straight. I want to get my car back before I report it to the insurance company because I don't want them to get into I'm not paying for it GM is war and I don't get my car back.


So if the deaelrship admitted there was a subframe problem, is GM paying for the damage?

mike
dms

I would think so... obviously. Anyway, if damage is a result due to (as in a previous case) the dealer not fully completing their PDI then it would lie strictly with the dealer. GM pays the dealer a set amount of $$$ to perform this PDI on EVERY vehicle. Sometimes (unfortunately) the dealer is lazy, takes off the shipping wrapping and collects pay.

I have to admit that I don't know what to look for (or even WHERE to look exactly). What color is it again?

Mine was also front right.
I wish I had taken a photo...

If it is indeed there, you can't miss it.
Bright red or orange, 4 or 5 inches long, maybe 2 inch diameter.
(OMG that sounds obscene...)

It is shaped (sort of rabbet-grooved) to lock between the uppermost and lowest coils and positioned on the outside of the spring so that it is easily accessible for removal.

I agree with dms and JusticePete that this represents a failure along the QA/QC chain that ends with us. I fully detailed this observation in my dealership survey for GM. I also went to the nearest Pontiac dealer to have it removed and insisted it be entered on the vehicle's service record.

I am not always 100% confident in dealer mechanics, but realise that sometimes it is necessary to take my car to them.

Wow, this is kinda scary. Is it visible if you just crank the wheel all the way over?

Is it visible if you just crank the wheel all the way over?

No need to turn the wheel. just look up at the coil spring through the space between the tyre and the fender.

........ is GM paying for the damage?

I would think so... obviously.

The post is pretty clear that the insurance company is paying for the repairs.

They wanted someone that would pay with the least amount of questions so that the repair would not take longer. They will wait until the repair paperwork is signed, the car is back in the driveway and the repair is paid before telling the insurance company what they believe may have happened.

Since it is going the insurance route and there is no mention of a GM investigation by a third party or dealership, or any special GM authorization, then it would appear that GM isn't paying

No need to turn the wheel. just look up at the coil spring through the space between the tyre and the fender.

Thank you! I just ran out to the parking lot and checked both front springs. No shipping blocks for me! :thumbsup:

Even though I wasn't getting any noises, it's still a relief to know for sure. I might've started imagining them! :nuts:

This is an opportunity. Take you wife or girlfriend for a pedicure. Pay attention when they stick that foam spacer between her toes. Now you not only have a happier significant other, you also know what the shipping coils spacer looks like.

I am still unclear on what broke causing the front end damage. Can some clarify this?

No shipping blocks for me!

Right on!
:)

This is an opportunity. Take you wife or girlfriend for a pedicure. Pay attention when they stick that foam spacer between her toes. Now you not only have a happier significant other, you also know what the shipping coils spacer looks like.

I am still unclear on what broke causing the front end damage. Can some clarify this?

My G8 will be on a rack tomorrow getting exhaust work done. I can snap photos of the stock suspension. Anywhere in particular I should concentrate?

My G8 will be on a rack tomorrow getting exhaust work done. I can snap photos of the stock suspension. Anywhere in particular I should concentrate?
Ray,

The more pictures you post for on the board the better. What I would very much like to see is where the front sub-frame is cracking / breaking which hopefully you won't be able to take pictures of on your car!

This is supposed to be a recent TSB for a noise in the front suspension:

Here is the info on the noises

Document ID: 2134116
#PIC4873: Pop Noise Heard From In Front Suspension
When Turning - keywords bearing coil mount plate
spring strut - (May 12, 2008)
Subject: Pop Noise Heard In Front Suspension When Turning
Models: 2008 Pontiac G8
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this
PI.
Condition/Concern:
A customer may comment of one or more pop noises heard from the front of the vehicle when
turning the steering wheel left or right. This may occur when the vehicle is stationary or while
driving.
Recommendation/Instructions:
The technician should inspect the front strut mounts and the front coil springs for witness marks
that may indicate a cause for this noise.
Inspect the front coil spring for witness marks that could indicate the end of the coil is
contacting the coil below it. If witness marks indicate coil to coil contact has occurred,
replace the coil spring. If possible, take photos of the witness marks and submit a Field
Product Report.
1.
Note: Please use caution when removing the strut bearing from the strut mount.
Incorrect removal could cause the bearing halves to separate. Current SI procedures
indicate the strut assembly support bearing is sealed for life.
Remove the strut bearing from the strut mount and inspect the bearing for any marks. A
dark streak on the strut bearing upper half (yellow in color) could indicate the bearing is
slipping inside the strut mount. If a dark streak/mark is found on the strut bearing yellow
surface, that bearing should be replaced. If replacement is necessary, the bearing must be
replaced as an assembly.
2.
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the
condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need
to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to
inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could
assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety
instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that
the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for
information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

This is supposed to be a recent TSB for a noise in the front suspension:

Here is the info on the noises

Document ID: 2134116
#PIC4873: Pop Noise Heard From In Front Suspension
When Turning - keywords bearing coil mount plate
spring strut - (May 12, 2008)
Subject: Pop Noise Heard In Front Suspension When Turning
Models: 2008 Pontiac G8
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this
PI.
Condition/Concern:
A customer may comment of one or more pop noises heard from the front of the vehicle when
turning the steering wheel left or right. This may occur when the vehicle is stationary or while
driving.
Recommendation/Instructions:
The technician should inspect the front strut mounts and the front coil springs for witness marks
that may indicate a cause for this noise.
Inspect the front coil spring for witness marks that could indicate the end of the coil is
contacting the coil below it. If witness marks indicate coil to coil contact has occurred,
replace the coil spring. If possible, take photos of the witness marks and submit a Field
Product Report.
1.
Note: Please use caution when removing the strut bearing from the strut mount.
Incorrect removal could cause the bearing halves to separate. Current SI procedures
indicate the strut assembly support bearing is sealed for life.
Remove the strut bearing from the strut mount and inspect the bearing for any marks. A
dark streak on the strut bearing upper half (yellow in color) could indicate the bearing is
slipping inside the strut mount. If a dark streak/mark is found on the strut bearing yellow
surface, that bearing should be replaced. If replacement is necessary, the bearing must be
replaced as an assembly.
2.
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the
condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need
to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to
inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could
assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety
instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that
the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for
information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

I copied this and sent it to my dealer. I dropped the car off this morning for the ECM/TCM updates and asked them to look in to this. They said there are now a couple of TSBs for the front suspension and have ordered parts to replace. I will have to take it back later next week to get the repairs done. I can't remember now what they told me was being replaced, but after I pick it up tonight I'll post the info.

Call your dealers and ask them to check the TSBs for your car. They said there are no safety issues, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

The dealer has ordered sway bar cushions for my G8. I'm hoping that this will eliminate the "popping" sound, but we'll see what happens when they are installed.

The dealer has ordered sway bar cushions for my G8. I'm hoping that this will eliminate the "popping" sound, but we'll see what happens when they are installed.

this is not a safety issue. There have been a number of misc. parts being ordered. Not sure if anyone has actually fixed one yet

mike
dms

The dealer has ordered sway bar cushions for my G8. I'm hoping that this will eliminate the "popping" sound, but we'll see what happens when they are installed.

How often does the popping sound occur? And when does it occur?

How often does the popping sound occur? And when does it occur?

Only at low speed when turning left. The sound is in the front right wheel well.

I hear like a single click when I back out my driveway and put it in drive. the sound comes from the front driver side? My buddy works for a bmw dealer and a customer bought an m3 with the shipping blocks still installed, he brought the car back 2or3 times complaining about the car riding rough. it took 3 trips to the dealer before they discovered the blocks. I think that shipping materials could be in place, because none of these dealers know anything about g8's.

I hear like a single click when I back out my driveway and put it in drive. the sound comes from the front driver side? My buddy works for a bmw dealer and a customer bought an m3 with the shipping blocks still installed, he brought the car back 2or3 times complaining about the car riding rough. it took 3 trips to the dealer before they discovered the blocks. I think that shipping materials could be in place, because none of these dealers know anything about g8's.

Similar experience here. I hear it once when I first back out of my drive and turn the wheel after putting it into drive. But I never hear it again.

Similar experience here. I hear it once when I first back out of my drive and turn the wheel after putting it into drive. But I never hear it again.

I have got same thing. back out of garage and turn wheel to right, go forward a little then back up with wheel turn all the way left. I have heard pop noise both way.

I took it to dealer with that letter few posts up, all they said is the Tech re-torque all the front suspension and he did not hear anything out of ordinary. he also said some pop noise is normal for this kind of suspension.

well I guess I can't really argue with someone who work on car for past 99 years when I only got 5 years. I guess I will wait and see until the recall come out for this issue to be address.:(

So I have been hearing that infamous popping sound as others have heard on thess various threads. So we have all talked about it and most of us had the shipping blocks stuck in the springs...well not in my case. Mine just started about a month ago I purchsed on 4-21-08. So I take it up to dealer and they say can't diagnose awaitng for official PI on it from GM that they had other customers come in with same problem so GM was reviewing. I finally take to the dealer today and they diagnosed that the lower springs were bad and needed new bearings which was also causing a serious alignment problem. After all said it done 4 hours later tearing all suspension apart on my brand new baby shes all betetr now.......:) After the fix the GM tech stated pretty soon GM might make this the first official recall so be aware because the tech stated that if I had driven on it long enough the spring could have Collapsed!!! Casuing major damage. So if your hearing a popping sound when turning get it checked out ASAP!

.......:) After the fix the GM tech stated that if I had driven on it long enough the spring could have Collapsed!!! Casuing major damage. ASAP!

This does not compute at all.
I cannot recall any such recall ever before by anyone...Springs? Collapse?


:drink:

So I have been hearing that infamous popping sound as others have heard on thess various threads. So we have all talked about it and most of us had the shipping blocks stuck in the springs...well not in my case. Mine just started about a month ago I purchsed on 4-21-08. So I take it up to dealer and they say can't diagnose awaitng for official PI on it from GM that they had other customers come in with same problem so GM was reviewing. I finally take to the dealer today and they diagnosed that the lower springs were bad and needed new bearings which was also causing a serious alignment problem. After all said it done 4 hours later tearing all suspension apart on my brand new baby shes all betetr now.......:) After the fix the GM tech stated pretty soon GM might make this the first official recall so be aware because the tech stated that if I had driven on it long enough the spring could have Collapsed!!! Casuing major damage. So if your hearing a popping sound when turning get it checked out ASAP!

As a Pedders trainer, I have probably looked at more G8s than anyone in the country. Issues that I see and know about are as follows:
1. Strut bush failures. GM bulletin on this
2. Spring issues making contact. GM bulletin on this
3. Sway bar bushings. GM bulletin on this

Now for real world, the installation of the springs, struts, and strut plates are ABSOLUTELY critcal in terms of alignment is concerned. GM does not tell you how to align the assemblies, but just match what the alignment is.
For the record, a correct strut align must have the double notches facing EXACTLY to the engine, and the spring wraps start 40mm to clockwise front a center line between the strut mount and the sway bar bracket on the strut (in respect to the double notch) GM has been fairly slopply on this.

Especially on the left side, and ai do not know why, I the strut bush sits off centered, and I have now seen 2 strut mount bush top washers, under a turn and hitting a bump, making contact with the upper inner fender well. Most problems that I have seen have been related to the left side. Again, not sure why.

I have yet to se a G8 that does not have a collapsed strut bushing. I have also seen them starting to tear as early as 1800 miles. I have also seen evidence of the left strut tower moving. This enforces the need for a strut brace

mike
dms

How can one tell if the strut bushing is collapsed without taking it apart?

How can one tell if the strut bushing is collapsed without taking it apart?

you can tell by measuring the ride heights. But the product is still too noew to have a grip on spring issues. So far, the G8 does not have the issues of spring tension loss like the GTO.

mike
dms

How can one tell if the strut bushing is collapsed without taking it apart?Empty your car of everything but a 1/4 tank of fuel. Park your car on the most level surface you can find with the wheels straight. Use a metric tape measure and hook the tab to the lower edge of the wheel rim straight through the wheel center up to the painted edge of the fender. Post your measurements in mm here.

Empty your car of everything but a 1/4 tank of fuel. Park your car on the most level surface you can find with the wheels straight. Use a metric tape measure and hook the tab to the lower edge of the wheel rim straight through the wheel center up to the painted edge of the fender. Post your measurements in mm here.

Don't want to sound like a dumb@ss, butt what is the difference between a strut mount, strut bearing, and strut bushing? I thought it was a once piece design, not multiple components?

[QUOTE=inTIMidator;68810]Don't want to sound like a dumb@ss, butt what is the difference between a strut mount, strut bearing, and strut bushing? I thought it was a once piece design, not multiple components?
See the picture attached. It is a complete strut assembly from a G8.
1. Srut mount;; that is the top piece (black) that looks tilted. It actually is the contact area where the strut mounts to the inner fender

2. Strut Plate;; in this case the strut plate is the upper spring seat and is metal and is just below the strut mount

2. Strut bearing;; You cannot see this one. it is a 2 piece bearing that allows the strut plate/spring to rotate while you turn the steering wheel

Now I can understand your confusion. There are a lot of vehicles out there were all 3 of these components are non serviceable, and are 1 piece.

Notice the angle of the strut bushing. This is what is concerning us. But GM says by making the strut plate angled like that, the strut bushing will last longer. Time will tell


mike
dms

Has anyone heard of a solution for this yet?

I just had mine at the dealer again for this and they installed new bushings and OF COURSE it didn't fix the problem. I'm getting pretty annoyed with this.

Has anyone heard of a solution for this yet?

I just had mine at the dealer again for this and they installed new bushings and OF COURSE it didn't fix the problem. I'm getting pretty annoyed with this.

To start, take them on a roadtest s they can hear the noise and know how to duplicte it.

If they have done all the bulletins, you might referr them to my post #41. I have seen the strut washers contacting the fender. this is due to weak strut bushings, and the factory not getting the alignment of the strut components exactly.

Not saying this is what your noise it, but is something that I have seen.

The strut component alignment is absolutley critical. GM makes mention of it in their strut diss. procedures, but does not tell you how to do it. They just mention to basicaly put it back together as you got it.

Here is a section I have wrote on our TrackII assembly and procedured manual. Now there are about 10 pictures that go with it but cannot copy those. Keep in mind this manual is only designed to supplement normal repair manuals:

5. Before disassembly note the factory strut-bearing plate is timed to the strut and spring. There is a double notch on the plate that is pointed exactly to the engine compartment. These notches align exactly to the lower sway bar end link-mounting bracket on the lower part of the strut. With a grease pen, mark the double notches, and springs so when re-assembling the Pedders strut, everything will be aligned as indicated Notice on the second coil the rubber spring insolator is approximately 40mm in a clockwise location from center. Mark this location! The rubber insulator has to be removed from the OEM spring and installed on the Pedders spring in this exact location.
6. With the strut assembly in a spring compressor, disassemble the strut assembly completely, after disconnecting the fastener for the lower boot.
7. Reassembly the strut assembly using the Pedders front strut, spring, strut bush and bearing, and utilizing the OEM strut plate, bellows, and bump stop.
8. Before final tightening, make sure the alignment marks are all done as indicated. Make sure when tightening the upper nut (24mm) make sure the strut bearing is installed with the white section into the strut bush, and both washers are beveled AWAY from the strut mount bush. Make sure the 2 notches on the strut plate align vertically to the strut sway bar end link bracket, and then align the spring accordingly. Once the 24 mm nut is tightened, transfer the plastic spring insulator starting 40mm clockwise from the second coil from centerline from double notch to bracket. SEE PICTURE.
8a. It may be difficult to get the uppert strut plate lined up to the spring when trying to assemble due to the built in angle of the upper strut mount plate. To resolve, use vise grips, and bring the spring into the seat. Also make sure you inspect the bump stop. This bump stop has 6k miles with aggressive driving.



GM has not figured out yet all the issues with noises. Part of the issue is that they are not having these coplaints in Au. They are still in denial that there is a strut bush shipping damage issue.

Good luck

mike
dms

Here is my issue - 2009 GT:
-Bought the car on Thursday w/ 53 on the clock.
-Have put ~740miles on the car since then.

Tonight, I ran over a road plate at about 35/40mph with the passenger side of the car.
It wasn't anything massive, nothing uncommon, and NOT like hitting a pothole.
Upon coming to a stop, I here a clunking.

Now, when traveling at low speeds over rough pavement, I here a clunking/giggling sound. When I rock the steering, while moving, the same thing happens.

Obviously having hit the aforementioned bump caused the problem - car was fine before hand. But this is still ridiculous. 792miles on the car!!!

To me, from previous suspension experience on other cars, it sounds like either a collapsed mount OR sway bar bushing.

Thoughts? At 7am I bringing it to the dealer...I am beyond pissed.

Ask if they have Chassis Ears.

You are on the right track. Follow what Mike has already posted AND check the endlinks.

Chassis Ears?

After reading through Pedders forum, and the progress made on your Project G8, I am tempted to have all the bushings replaced with Pedders' products. I like the slightly floaty suspension, as this is my daily driver, compared to my significantly worked VW Corrado.
Anything wrong with running stock springs and dampers with all Pedders bushings?

If my Dealer falls into the "We're learning too" group, I'd rather swing over to one of your Jersey or CT dealers.

The car doesn't feel any looser - anything wrong with driving a large distance with these possible failures?

:pir_flag:

You don't need to do them all.

Rear sub-frame bush insert -- all gain and no pain.
Front radius rod bushes -- all gain and no pain.
Pedders coils and dampers -- 95% and maybe 5% pain?

There is just too much height in the OE rear coils. The front and rears are a bit light in rate. The OE dampers are NG -- NO GAS. They are basic oil and air dampers. The G8 with a few suspension teaks is off the charts in daily driver enjoyment. There is very little pain associated with the gain.

:pir_flag:

Chassis Ears: http://www.etoolcart.com/wirelesschassisears-wirelessjsp97202.aspx The older ones had six channels and wires. They are invaluable in diagnosing chassis noises.

There is a TSB for the bushing. search TSB

According to the post here, said TSB is for 08 GTs.
Mine is a 2009 with a VIN well passed the advertised number.

I'll find out soon enough - I am hoping the dealer can sort it quickly.
Either way, I am strongly considering Pedderizing the suspension.

Pete, you shouldn't have posted that :D
That is usually all the prodding I need :D

update:
-Dealer failed to mention that they see appointment cars first. They took my car, but I had to call twice to find out the status. As of 445pm EST, the technician had road-tested the car, but had not put it on the lift. That will happen tomorrow.

-No too happy with follow-up so far. If you know that appointments are looked at first, I would have expected this information at 7am. Further, I would have liked to know that by EOD today, a technician had seen the car, verified the issue, yet did not have enough time to determine the source of the issue.

And on we go.

update:
-Dealer failed to mention that they see appointment cars first.
And on we go.

Standard practice for a shop to utilize an appointment book for scheduling available shop time among their techs. They probably see no reason to have to explain or point out the obvious.

fair point, however, it might have been something worth mentioning to a new owner?
First time to the service department, and especially so soon...sort of like a rehashing of policies if you will.

Either way, I think calling me to tell me that at least the tech looked at it before the end of day would have been nice. I am not trying to bash the dealer here, I have had numerous positive experiences with other dealers..I just want my car back :(

dealer called @8:30am bad bearing!:whine:
going to over night the part have it back 8/21/08.
have paint coming off steering wheel post pic when i get it back.:mad:
it's on nation wide back order.

dealer called @8:30am bad bearing!:whine:
going to over night the part have it back 8/21/08.
have paint coming off steering wheel post pic when i get it back.:mad:
it's on nation wide back order.
Bad bearing -- which bearing?

Luckily I have a great service department at my dealer (Koons of Manassas, Virginia). They are completely up front and honest with me and have been willing to do what it takes to figure this out. I've had it in three times and each time they've given me a car to drive at no cost.

I've taken the lead tech on a drive with me and he heard the sound once. He said he didn't know what it was but would look in to it further. We'll see what happens...

Luckily I have a great service department at my dealer (Koons of Manassas, Virginia). They are completely up front and honest with me and have been willing to do what it takes to figure this out. I've had it in three times and each time they've given me a car to drive at no cost.

I've taken the lead tech on a drive with me and he heard the sound once. He said he didn't know what it was but would look in to it further. We'll see what happens...
Chassis Ears are invaluable for this type of diagnostic. Ask the Dealer if they have Chassis Ears.

My problem turned out to be an End Link/Sway Bar nut that loosened up.

Apparently it wasn't torque to specs from the factory.

So I have the car back, and am back to smiling all the time :)

My problem turned out to be an End Link/Sway Bar nut that loosened up.

Apparently it wasn't torque to specs from the factory.

So I have the car back, and am back to smiling all the time :)

This is a great reason why preliminary inspections and checks shold be done prior to doing bulletins or speculations.

mike
dms

I just got my car back from the dealer after noticing a poping noise from the front left side. Needless to say they found nothing rong and it actually seems worse since I got it back. I only notice it at slow speeds going over small bumbs such as man hole covers or small pot holes, not when turning the wheel.:whine:

I just got my car back from the dealer after noticing a poping noise from the front left side. Needless to say they found nothing rong and it actually seems worse since I got it back. I only notice it at slow speeds going over small bumbs such as man hole covers or small pot holes, not when turning the wheel.:whine:

You should take it back to the dealer, and go on a road test with them and show them how to duplicate the noise. this is alwasy best to do this with a noise type complaint
mike
dms

guys, i don't have any popping noises in the front suspension, but i must say that when i hit a sharp bump, the front suspension sounds like it's gonna crash through the frame. don't know if the jounce bumpers are pathetic or what, but it is kinda disconcerting to hear! anybody else notice similar??

Having the same problem with my front passenger strut. (or whatever the problem is) Taking it to the dealer in the morning to look at. Mine has made the noise going over VERY minor bumps and once when changing lanes on the highway (which doesn't involve much wheel movement). First time I thought maybe a rock or something kicked up and hit the wheel well. Second time was much too loud unless we're talking about a rock the size of a golf ball. I've bounced cats off my Civic bumper that didn't made loud of a pop. Definitely suspension but exactly what I'm not sure. Hopefully, it's just the torque problem like Kal had. Will keep you posted with what I find out.

Man .. has anyone posted images? from inside the engine.


The top bushing should it be sitting on the fender? I hear the pop in the mornings when i backup and turn right. I also think the tires are crap because the steering vibrates at low speeds. Probably due to not being warm.

Man .. has anyone posted images? from inside the engine.


The top bushing should it be sitting on the fender? I hear the pop in the mornings when i backup and turn right. I also think the tires are crap because the steering vibrates at low speeds. Probably due to not being warm.

This is when I hear my popping sound as well...but I'm turning left. After that it doesn't happen.

I get the same noise every morning then gone until next day. Still figuring it out. Could be suspension or some sort of brake check? It sounds like suspension butt feels like its in the brakes.

You should take it back to the dealer, and go on a road test with them and show them how to duplicate the noise. this is alwasy best to do this with a noise type complaint
mike
dms

Man this is some real BS I have absolutely had it with GM and this popping noise this will be my 3rd time back to the dealer with this crap. The first time they swapped out the bearing and everything was kool now its back again. Eveytime I turn left I hear in on the passenger side. I will be calling them tomorrow to set up another appointment. I know you know alot about our suspensions what should I tell them to look for now or check specifically?

Man this is some real BS I have absolutely had it with GM and this popping noise this will be my 3rd time back to the dealer with this crap. The first time they swapped out the bearing and everything was kool now its back again. Eveytime I turn left I hear in on the passenger side. I will be calling them tomorrow to set up another appointment. I know you know alot about our suspensions what should I tell them to look for now or check specifically?

Make sure they are aware of the 2 bulltiens on suspension noises. Check for loose bolts. With the wheels on the ground, have them remove the 24mm strut nut, and plate, and see if the doned washer is hitting the inner fender well opening. Make sure the strut assembly components are aligned. The double notch on the strut upper srping seat goes towards the engine, which must align vertically to the strut sway bar end link bracket. Then the spring wrap must be on the 2nd coil 40mm from centerline in a clockwise position looking at it from the top

Again, make sure you roadtest it with them so they can see exactly how to duplicate the noise.

Hope this helps
mike
dms

thanks man will do

Man .. has anyone posted images? from inside the engine.


The top bushing should it be sitting on the fender? I hear the pop in the mornings when i backup and turn right. I also think the tires are crap because the steering vibrates at low speeds. Probably due to not being warm.
The vibration may be the AFM. Next time you get the low speed vibration give the throttle a tiny little touch to kick it out of AFM but barely change the speed. My guess is the vibration will go away with the change in AFM status.

Do you have Bridgestone Ptenza 050?

:iagree:Make sure they are aware of the 2 bulltiens on suspension noises. Check for loose bolts. With the wheels on the ground, have them remove the 24mm strut nut, and plate, and see if the doned washer is hitting the inner fender well opening. Make sure the strut assembly components are aligned. The double notch on the strut upper srping seat goes towards the engine, which must align vertically to the strut sway bar end link bracket. Then the spring wrap must be on the 2nd coil 40mm from centerline in a clockwise position looking at it from the top

Again, make sure you roadtest it with them so they can see exactly how to duplicate the noise.

Hope this helps
mike
dms

The technician should inspect the front strut mounts and the front coil springs for witness marks
that may indicate a cause for this noise.
Inspect the front coil spring for witness marks

Ok, what exactly are these marks and where do I look for them?
Anyone got a picture?

hey guys,

my g8 has about 5300 miles on it and i'm beginning to notice what sounds like a rattle coming from the front suspension...passenger side i believe. it is most noticeable when i'm on a city street that has a lot of small bumps/ruts with narrow spacing between them. is this what some of you have noticed...? thanks...troy

For those with the front suspension rattle . . . I've got the same thing only on the driver's side front. Happens over bumpy roads when I'm not on the brakes. Almost sounds like a loose tie rod (which it is not) or a loose sway bar end link. I thought it was the latter, but the dealer tech has isolated the sound to the strut assembly. They have order an entire strut assembly for me and will install it once they get it in (est. 3-5 working days.)

So far, it seems the dealer is really trying their best to do me right on this. So far, I've had very good experiences with the dealer's service so we'll see. I might bring to their attention the bulletin regarding the end links though in case it applies . ..

I'll post an update after this repair is performed.

For those with the front suspension rattle . . . I've got the same thing only on the driver's side front. Happens over bumpy roads when I'm not on the brakes. Almost sounds like a loose tie rod (which it is not) or a loose sway bar end link. I thought it was the latter, but the dealer tech has isolated the sound to the strut assembly. They have order an entire strut assembly for me and will install it once they get it in (est. 3-5 working days.)

So far, it seems the dealer is really trying their best to do me right no this. So far, I've had very good experiences with the dealer's service so we'll see. I might bring to their attention the bulletin regarding the end links though in case it applies . ..

I'll post an update after this repair is performed.

I've got the same "crunching" sound even after a Pedders Track II install (sans swaybars). It's a tough diagnosis, for sure.

hey guys,

my g8 has about 5300 miles on it and i'm beginning to notice what sounds like a rattle coming from the front suspension...passenger side i believe. it is most noticeable when i'm on a city street that has a lot of small bumps/ruts with narrow spacing between them. is this what some of you have noticed...? thanks...troy

This is not the same issue I have, but it seems that others are experiencing something very similar.

I have had my g8 into the dealer about 5 or 6 times over the course of the last 3 months for a poping/ grinding noise coming from the front driver side and they can't figure it out. At first they had trouble replicating the noise and just tightened every thing last week they replaced the driver side strut and its still doing it. The service manager explained that Gm does not just let them replace parts if they can't pin point the problem and actullaly told me to come back when it got worse. lol . Its worse so its back in there.

According to them there are no listed (TSB) for my vehicle for this problem. Not sure if its because it's an 09 or because I'm in Canada. Its not a sublte noise or somthing you have to turn he radio down to hear. I guess they will figure it out eventually. I told them to look for witness marks on the coil springs, hope that points them in the right direction. Very frustrating to say the least.

thanks for the feedback guys. i guess when it gets a bit worse i'll just have to take 'er in and see what comes of it...

I went to a Phoenix GM dealer they replaced the struts and mounts, same problem driving home.... disappointed. I guess it looks like I'll just keep visiting different GM dealers until they replace every part covered under warranty. LOL idiots

i finally took mine in for the popping noise. after waiting two weeks for parts...the dealership replaced my lower control arms on the driver's side. so far so good. and i'm amazed at how much more solid the steering now feels!

i finally took mine in for the popping noise. after waiting two weeks for parts...the dealership replaced my lower control arms on the driver's side. so far so good. and i'm amazed at how much more solid the steering now feels!Thos ball joints can make a lot of noise going down the street.

Thos ball joints can make a lot of noise going down the street.

yes they do! i also think at some point the passenger side will have to be done since it makes just a little noise now. hopefully that will be after the car goes back to GMAC next may! :)

I have learned a lot about what questions to ask when getting a dealer to repair a suspension problem.

1)ask that you speak ONLY to a service manager that has experience turning a wrench
2) ask that ONLY a MASTER certified tech works on your car
3) ask if they do their appointments first before seeing your car even if you show up at 7am. (waited until 2pm before anyone looked at my car..had that happen to me)

I have had the pop, clunk sound in my front suspension for 6 months now. Nobody could figure it out. After a different GM dealer replaced the struts two weeks ago, the noise became much louder. So much so the dealer could not ignore it.

After pushing the people at the dealership to their stress limit, they put their "MASTER" certified mechanic on the problem, he found the issue in about 15 minutes. They raised the car up using I think was the alignment lift (big and red thingabob), as one mechanic moved the steering wheel left and right, I put my hand on the lower control arms and sure enough you could feel it pop.

It has been a frustrating experience. I took three different days off from work and waited at the dealer for 8 hours only to find nobody could figure it out. Three different times I went home empty handed. But tomorrow I hope all my frustration and frackn time spent (24 hrs minimum) in the dealer's waiting lobby will be redeemed.

If you have G8 get those ball joints or all lower control arms replaced sooner than later.

Its not over.... after the dealer replaced the Lower Control Arms on both sides top and bottom....the noise was still there LOL. Now they are going after the end links (sway bar or tie rod not sure) but now I'm in the rental for the weekend. See yal next week after I get my car back. maybe they can drop in a new 6.2 liter engiine that would fix it LOL.

Having the same issues with my 09 G8 sedan, had upper and lower control arms replaced, not the problem; then end links for front sway bar, again not the problem. Dealer says they now have to get out the "electronic ears" and sound out the car to see exactly where the issues are...... With all the diagnostics and the replacement appointments, this is my 4th trip to the dealer and so far, no satisfaction. Would love to hear from someone who has actually had the problem finally fixed.......time to start writing directly to GM Customer service.

Having the same issues with my 09 G8 sedan, had upper and lower control arms replaced, not the problem; then end links for front sway bar, again not the problem. Dealer says they now have to get out the "electronic ears" and sound out the car to see exactly where the issues are...... With all the diagnostics and the replacement appointments, this is my 4th trip to the dealer and so far, no satisfaction. Would love to hear from someone who has actually had the problem finally fixed.......time to start writing directly to GM Customer service.

HAS YOUR gm\\GM DEALER CONTACTED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE? THEY ARE A GREAT RESOURCE. iN FACT THE DEALERSHIP WILL HAVE TO GET THEM INVOLVED FOR THEM TO GET PAYMENT FOR THE WORK THAT THEY ALREADY HAVE DONE.

I just got the car back today after they replaced the sway bar end links...the popping noise is still there only its barely noticeable now. But I can reproduce it by backing out of my driveway and slightly turning the wheel.

Let's see:
Had new Struts, Lower control arms left and right and sway bar end links...still a problem

Here is the story. I commute to work 80 miles one way. I drove to work and stopped at the Circle K to pick up some water on the way to work. As I was pulling out of the parking spot turning my wheel left on a slight incline I heard a loud POP. I thought nooo maybe the suspension was just settling. So I ignored it and had to get to work. When I got home I crawled underneath the car and what did I see a broken end link on my right side. Is the sway bar putting to much stress on the end link or are the OE end links just junk?

Check out the picture
http://www.paulzuniga.com/endlink.jpg

[quote=finallink;553969]Here is the story. I commute to work 80 miles one way. I drove to work and stopped at the Circle K to pick up some water on the way to work. As I was pulling out of the parking spot turning my wheel left on a slight incline I heard a loud POP. I thought nooo maybe the suspension was just settling. So I ignored it and had to get to work. When I got home I crawled underneath the car and what did I see a broken end link on my right side. Is the sway bar putting to much stress on the end link or are the OE end links just junk?


Holy Sh**. Doesn't look good. Keep us informed.

Here is the story. I commute to work 80 miles one way. I drove to work and stopped at the Circle K to pick up some water on the way to work. As I was pulling out of the parking spot turning my wheel left on a slight incline I heard a loud POP. I thought nooo maybe the suspension was just settling. So I ignored it and had to get to work. When I got home I crawled underneath the car and what did I see a broken end link on my right side. Is the sway bar putting to much stress on the end link or are the OE end links just junk?

Check out the picture
http://www.paulzuniga.com/endlink.jpg

What mods do you have?
mike
dms

mine sounds like a soft thud on the fender every time i hit a concentrated bumb on the drivers side. like pulling in and out of my driveway. seems like a consistent problem among us G8 owners.

Here is the story. I commute to work 80 miles one way. I drove to work and stopped at the Circle K to pick up some water on the way to work. As I was pulling out of the parking spot turning my wheel left on a slight incline I heard a loud POP. I thought nooo maybe the suspension was just settling. So I ignored it and had to get to work. When I got home I crawled underneath the car and what did I see a broken end link on my right side. Is the sway bar putting to much stress on the end link or are the OE end links just junk?

Check out the picture
http://www.paulzuniga.com/endlink.jpg

They probably put the endlinks on backwards. I had some work done on my sway bars one time and the endlinks were reinstalled incorrectly. I was making a turn in my neighborhood and it popped off just like yours.

They probably put the endlinks on backwards. I had some work done on my sway bars one time and the endlinks were reinstalled incorrectly. I was making a turn in my neighborhood and it popped off just like yours.

This is my thought exactly. They will go in backwasrds, but the ballstuds will be in a bind. If you look at the end link with the wheels going straight, the r ballstud should be centered in the socket

I wanted to get a mod list before I mentioned this.

thanks
mike
dms

http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10972

As already mentioned.

The only mods I have is pedderized bushings top to bottom front to back, they were all replaced by LoudPedal Motorsports.

My service manager is confused by the entire ordeal. They ordered the replacement part for the broken endlink on the right then put it on, only to have the other endlink on the left break when the tech put the car down from the rack. So they had to order another endlink.
I gave the service manager that bulletin
#08-03-08-005: Correctly Identifying Front Stabilizer Shaft Link During Replacement in Service - (Jun 17, 2008).

My service manager thinks the tech probably put it on upside down because the driver side endlink broke immediately when he brought it down from the lift as soon as it hit the ground.

In the meantime, I'll be driving the frackn rental. I'm sooo tired of driving a rental. If I didn't love my G8 so much, I would have invoked the lemon law already.

Today...I finally got my car back after a long long battle with two different GM dealers, 6 different alignments, RE 11's balanced over and over, got 2 new struts, new LCA's and finally the problem was bad endlinks. But not before my dealer broke two of them. Then the 2nd pair was installed upside down and broke again. Three pairs of endlinks later...I'm back on the road again.

Now my G8 feels better than it did when it rolled off the lot when I bought it. Steering is tight, crisp, true, and very responsive. It's fun again to drive.

Whatever you do guys DON"T GIVE UP ON YOUR G8. IT"S ALL WORTH IT.

I'll post pictures later
thanks again to the G8 community, I would have gone crazy without you.

Today...I finally got my car back after a long long battle with two different GM dealers, 6 different alignments, RE 11's balanced over and over, got 2 new struts, new LCA's and finally the problem was bad endlinks. But not before my dealer broke two of them. Then the 2nd pair was installed upside down and broke again. Three pairs of endlinks later...I'm back on the road again.

Now my G8 feels better than it did when it rolled off the lot when I bought it. Steering is tight, crisp, true, and very responsive. It's fun again to drive.

Whatever you do guys DON"T GIVE UP ON YOUR G8. IT"S ALL WORTH IT.

I'll post pictures later
thanks again to the G8 community, I would have gone crazy without you.

So what actual;ly fixed it?
mike
dms