Decoding GT86 2017 Front Wheel Suspension Noises And How To Fix Them

Understanding the Symphony of Sounds from Your GT86's Front End

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! If you're a proud owner of a 2017 GT86 and you've been experiencing some awful sounds emanating from your front wheel suspension, you're definitely not alone. That symphony of clunks, squeaks, and groans can be downright unsettling, and trust me, I get it. Diagnosing these noises can feel like trying to solve a mystery, but don't worry, we're going to break it down together. Suspension systems are complex, a finely tuned orchestra of parts working in harmony to give you that smooth, responsive ride you expect from a sports car like the GT86. When one instrument is out of tune, the whole performance suffers. These noises can be indicative of a range of issues, from minor wear and tear to more significant component failures. The key is to pinpoint the type of sound, when it occurs, and under what conditions. Is it a sharp clunk when you go over bumps? A persistent squeak at low speeds? Or a groan when you turn the wheel? Each sound tells a story, a clue that leads us closer to the culprit.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why addressing these suspension noises is so crucial. It's not just about the peace of mind (though that's definitely a factor!). Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger problems down the road, potentially compromising your car's handling, safety, and even causing further damage to other components. A worn-out ball joint, for example, might start as a minor clunk, but if left unattended, it could lead to excessive play in the suspension, affecting your steering and tire wear. In more extreme cases, a component could fail completely, resulting in a loss of control. So, consider those awful sounds as your car's way of waving a red flag, signaling that something needs attention. Think of it as preventive maintenance – catching the issue early can save you a lot of headaches (and money) in the long run. We'll explore common causes of these noises, from the usual suspects like worn bushings and ball joints to potential issues with struts, springs, and other suspension parts. We will also look at some troubleshooting techniques to help you narrow down the source of the sound, and discuss the importance of a professional inspection. So buckle up, guys, let's get started on this journey to silence those awful front wheel suspension noises!

Common Culprits Behind the Clatter

When it comes to those dreaded suspension noises, there are a few common culprits that often steal the spotlight. Think of them as the usual suspects in our automotive mystery. Let's start with worn bushings. Bushings are those unassuming little rubber or polyurethane cushions that act as insulators between suspension components. They're designed to absorb vibrations and reduce noise, but over time, they can wear out, crack, and lose their ability to do their job effectively. When bushings fail, you might hear clunking or rattling sounds, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Picture it like this: the suspension components are now making direct contact with each other, metal-on-metal, creating those irritating noises. Diagnosing worn bushings often involves a visual inspection – look for cracks, tears, or excessive play in the bushings. Sometimes, a mechanic might use a pry bar to check for movement in the suspension components, helping to pinpoint the source of the noise. Replacing worn bushings is a relatively straightforward repair, and it can make a world of difference in the ride quality and noise level of your GT86.

Next up on our list are ball joints. These are spherical bearings that connect the suspension control arms to the steering knuckles, allowing for smooth movement and articulation of the wheels. Ball joints are subject to a lot of stress and wear, and when they start to fail, they can produce clunking, popping, or even squeaking sounds. You might notice these noises when turning the steering wheel, going over bumps, or even just driving straight. Bad ball joints can also affect your car's alignment and handling, so it's crucial to address them promptly. Diagnosing faulty ball joints often involves checking for play in the joint – a mechanic might use a special tool to measure the amount of movement. In severe cases, you might even be able to feel the play yourself by grabbing the wheel and trying to move it back and forth. Replacing ball joints can be a bit more involved than replacing bushings, as it often requires specialized tools and knowledge. But again, it's a critical repair that can significantly improve your car's safety and performance. We also cannot forget about struts and shocks. These components are the backbone of your suspension system, responsible for controlling the movement of the springs and damping out vibrations. When struts or shocks wear out, they can lose their ability to effectively absorb bumps and control body roll, leading to a bouncy ride and, yes, you guessed it, noises. Worn struts or shocks can produce a variety of sounds, including clunking, rattling, and even a kind of hollow, echoing noise. You might also notice that your car feels less stable in corners or that it takes longer to stop. Diagnosing worn struts or shocks often involves a visual inspection – look for leaks, damage, or signs of excessive wear. A bounce test can also be helpful – push down firmly on each corner of the car and see how quickly it rebounds. If it bounces excessively, it's a sign that the struts or shocks might be worn out.

Digging Deeper: Other Potential Noise Sources

While we've covered some of the most common culprits behind front wheel suspension noises, there are other potential sources that we shouldn't overlook. Sometimes, the problem might be a little more subtle, a hidden issue that requires a bit more detective work to uncover. Let's explore some of these possibilities. Sway bar links, also known as stabilizer bar links, are small but mighty components that connect the sway bar to the suspension. They play a crucial role in controlling body roll and improving handling. When sway bar links wear out, they can produce a clunking or rattling sound, especially when driving over uneven surfaces or turning. The noise might be similar to that of worn bushings or ball joints, making it a bit tricky to diagnose. Diagnosing faulty sway bar links often involves a visual inspection – look for play in the joints or any signs of damage. A mechanic might also use a pry bar to check for movement. Replacing sway bar links is a relatively simple repair, and it can significantly improve your car's handling and reduce those pesky noises.

Another potential source of noise is loose or worn suspension hardware. Over time, bolts and nuts can loosen, allowing suspension components to move and rattle. This can produce a variety of sounds, including clunking, rattling, and even squeaking. Diagnosing loose hardware often involves a thorough inspection of all suspension components, checking for loose bolts and nuts. Tightening these fasteners to the correct torque specification can often resolve the issue. However, if the hardware is worn or damaged, it might need to be replaced. Springs themselves can also be a source of noise, although it's less common. Broken or damaged springs can produce a variety of sounds, including clunking, popping, and even a kind of grinding noise. You might also notice that your car sits lower on one side or that the ride feels harsher than usual. Diagnosing spring issues often involves a visual inspection – look for cracks, breaks, or signs of damage. Replacing springs can be a more involved repair, as it often requires specialized tools and knowledge. But if a spring is the culprit, replacing it is essential for restoring your car's ride quality and handling. Finally, let's not forget about the possibility of noise transferring from other components. Sometimes, a noise that seems to be coming from the suspension might actually be originating from somewhere else, such as the brakes, wheels, or even the engine. For example, a loose brake pad can rattle and create a clunking sound, while a bent wheel can cause vibrations and noises that seem to be coming from the suspension. Diagnosing these types of issues can be challenging, as it requires careful listening and observation. A mechanic might use a stethoscope to try to pinpoint the source of the noise, or they might perform a series of tests to isolate the problem. The lesson here is that you always want to consider all the possibilities, even the unexpected ones. Sometimes, it takes a bit of creative thinking and problem-solving to get to the root of the issue.

Troubleshooting Techniques: Becoming Your Own Suspension Sleuth

Okay, guys, so you've got those awful noises coming from your front wheel suspension, and you're ready to put on your detective hat and start sleuthing. That's the spirit! Troubleshooting suspension noises can feel like a puzzle, but with a little patience and the right techniques, you can often narrow down the source of the problem and save yourself some time and money. Let's dive into some practical troubleshooting methods that you can use. First and foremost, listen carefully and pay attention to the details. The type of noise, when it occurs, and under what conditions can provide valuable clues. Is it a clunk, a squeak, a groan, or something else? Does it happen when you go over bumps, turn the steering wheel, or brake? Does it occur at low speeds or high speeds? The more information you can gather, the better. Try to be as specific as possible in your observations. For example, instead of just saying "it clunks when I go over bumps," try to describe the type of bump (e.g., speed bump, pothole, uneven road surface) and the severity of the clunk. This level of detail can help you differentiate between different potential causes. Next, try to isolate the noise. Can you tell which side of the car it's coming from? Is it coming from the front or the rear? If you can narrow down the location of the noise, it can help you focus your attention on specific components. One way to do this is to have a friend or family member stand outside the car while you drive over bumps or turn the steering wheel. They might be able to pinpoint the location of the noise more easily than you can from inside the car. You can also try driving on different types of surfaces to see if the noise changes. For example, if the noise is more pronounced when driving on a rough road, it might indicate a problem with the struts or shocks. If it's more noticeable when turning, it might point to a problem with the ball joints or sway bar links. Visual inspection is your next weapon in the fight against those mystery noises. Get down and dirty (safely, of course!) and take a close look at your suspension components. Look for any obvious signs of damage, wear, or looseness. Check the bushings for cracks, tears, or excessive play. Look at the ball joints for signs of leakage or wear. Examine the struts and shocks for leaks or damage. Check the springs for cracks or breaks. Look for loose bolts or nuts. A good flashlight can be your best friend during a visual inspection, allowing you to see into those hard-to-reach areas. If you're not comfortable getting under the car, you can also try raising it on jack stands. Just make sure to use proper safety precautions and support the car securely. The "bounce test" is another simple but effective troubleshooting technique. Push down firmly on each corner of the car and see how quickly it rebounds. If the car bounces excessively, it's a sign that the struts or shocks might be worn out. A healthy suspension should rebound smoothly and settle quickly, with minimal bouncing. If one corner of the car bounces significantly more than the others, it suggests that the strut or shock on that corner is the culprit. This test is particularly useful for identifying problems with the damping capabilities of your suspension. Feeling for play in the suspension components is another valuable technique. With the car safely supported on jack stands, try grabbing each component and wiggling it. Check for any excessive play or movement. You can try grabbing the wheel and moving it back and forth, checking for play in the ball joints and wheel bearings. You can also try using a pry bar to check for movement in the bushings and sway bar links. Any noticeable play indicates that the component might be worn out and in need of replacement.

When to Call in the Pros: The Importance of a Professional Inspection

Alright, guys, we've covered a lot of ground when it comes to diagnosing and troubleshooting front wheel suspension noises on your 2017 GT86. You've armed yourselves with knowledge, you've listened carefully, you've inspected visually, and you've even tried some hands-on techniques. But let's be real – sometimes, even the most dedicated DIYer needs to call in the pros. Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial, not just for fixing the problem, but also for ensuring your safety and preventing further damage to your car. There are several situations where a professional inspection is highly recommended. If you've tried the troubleshooting techniques and you're still not sure what's causing the noise, it's definitely time to consult a mechanic. Suspension systems are complex, and some issues can be tricky to diagnose without specialized tools and expertise. A trained technician can perform a thorough inspection of your suspension, using their experience and equipment to pinpoint the source of the noise and recommend the appropriate repairs. They can also identify any underlying issues that you might have missed, preventing them from turning into bigger problems down the road. If you notice any signs of serious damage or component failure, it's imperative to seek professional help immediately. This includes things like broken springs, severely worn ball joints, or damaged struts or shocks. Driving with a compromised suspension can be extremely dangerous, affecting your car's handling, braking, and overall stability. It's simply not worth the risk to continue driving in this condition. A mechanic can assess the damage and advise you on the best course of action, whether it's replacing a single component or overhauling the entire suspension system. If the noises are accompanied by other symptoms, such as poor handling, uneven tire wear, or a vibrating steering wheel, it's another clear sign that you need a professional inspection. These symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying issue that needs to be addressed promptly. For example, uneven tire wear might suggest a problem with your car's alignment, while a vibrating steering wheel could be a sign of a worn wheel bearing or other suspension component. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further damage and potentially compromise your safety. If you're not comfortable performing certain repairs yourself, it's always best to leave it to the professionals. Some suspension repairs, such as replacing ball joints or struts, require specialized tools and knowledge. Attempting these repairs without the proper equipment or experience can be dangerous and could potentially damage your car further. A qualified mechanic has the training and expertise to perform these repairs safely and effectively, ensuring that your car is back on the road in top condition.

Conclusion: Silencing the Symphony of Suspension Sounds

So, there you have it, guys! We've embarked on a journey to decode those awful front wheel suspension noises plaguing your 2017 GT86. We've explored the common culprits, delved into troubleshooting techniques, and discussed the importance of professional inspections. By now, you should have a much better understanding of what might be causing those sounds and how to address them. Remember, those noises are your car's way of communicating, signaling that something needs attention. Ignoring them can lead to bigger problems down the road, compromising your car's safety, handling, and overall performance. The key is to listen carefully, observe the details, and take action. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or prefer to leave the repairs to the professionals, the knowledge you've gained here will empower you to make informed decisions about your car's suspension. And hey, even if you end up taking your GT86 to a mechanic, you'll be able to describe the symptoms and your observations more effectively, helping them diagnose the problem more efficiently. So, go forth and conquer those suspension sounds! With a little detective work and the right approach, you can silence the symphony of clunks, squeaks, and groans and get back to enjoying the smooth, responsive ride that your GT86 was designed to deliver. And remember, a well-maintained suspension not only makes your car sound better, but it also makes it safer and more fun to drive. Happy motoring, everyone!