Creaking or Popping Type Sound from Front End or Suspension When Driving Over Bumps or in Tight Turns (Remove Road Debris from Between Front Inner Fender and Strut Support)

This bulletin is being revised to add the 2003 and 2004 model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 01-08-63-004 (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).

Some customers may comment on a creaking or popping type sound coming from the front end or suspension when driving over bumps or rough pavement. The sound may also be heard when making tight turns in either direction.

Small stones, gravel or road debris may have been thrown from the front tires and become lodged between the backside of the strut support (2) and the inner fender (1) at the locations shown by the arrows. Once lodged, they begin to creak or create popping type noises as the body flexes. The stones or debris usually are not visible from inside the wheelhouse.

Remove the stones or debris (3) by pulling or prying the bottom of the inner fender (1) inwards at the locations (4) shown. By moving the bottom of the inner fender inwards toward the engine, an exit path will be created between it and the strut support (2) which will allow the stones or debris to fall out. After the stones or debris have been removed, move the inner fender inwards slightly more to increase the size of the exit path so that any future debris may exit automatically. Perform this same procedure on the inner fender on the opposite side of the vehicle to prevent stones or debris from getting trapped in the future.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: