Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums

Porsche 997: Why is My Suspension Noisy?

Creaking, groaning, clunking, and popping noises are horrible, but fortunately, they can usually be diagnosed and resolved without too much pain.

By Brett Foote - May 12, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 997 (2005-2012).

A noisy suspension is not only an annoyance, it can also signal several potential problems that may be going on under your car. Generally, these noises are caused by worn or broken suspension components that simply need to be replaced. But where do you begin to look? Keep reading as this article will run down all the potential causes of a noisy suspension, and how to identify the root cause.

Step 1 – Check your shocks/struts

A squeaking noise while traveling over bumps or dips in the road can signify a potential shock issue. Other symptoms include excessive bounciness when traveling over bumps, body roll in corners, nose dives or rear end squats under acceleration or braking, leaking fluids, and cupping of the tires. To check your shocks or struts, push down on each corner of the car. If the car slowly rises back up, the shocks and struts are fine. If it bounces multiple times, your shocks are worn and should be replaced.

Figure 1. A set of 997 struts and springs.

(Related Article: How to Replace Front Shocks - Rennlist.com)

Step 2 – Check your suspension bushings

Suspension bushings cushion and absorb shock on the chassis to prevent it from entering the passenger compartment. When they are worn, torn, or missing, things can get pretty rough and noisy. Clunks, squeaks, and squeals while driving over various surfaces can all be signs of bad suspension bushings. You may also notice a heavy clunk while turning the wheel in either direction, or feel a pull or drift to one side while driving on a level, straight road. Check the bushings at each end of your suspension's sway bar and at the top of each top shock or strut tower for damage.

Figure 2. Inspect suspension bushings for damage.

Step 3 – Check your ball joints

When ball joints are going bad, you might hear loud banging or popping noises, or even something as subtle as a slight tap when you turn the wheel. Generally, when ball joints begin to wear out, they make a quieter thud or clunk when you hit a pothole or bump, progressing to loud bangs as you navigate bumps or turn corners. Steering will feel vague and loose, and the car responds to steering wheel input in a very vague and detached manner. To check your ball joints, jack the car up and support it on jack stands. Grab one tire with your hands at the top and bottom, then try to rock the wheel. Excessive movement, often accompanied by clunking noises, indicates a bad ball joint.

Figure 3. A complete ball joint failure can be catastrophic.

Related Discussions