I am getting a terribly annoying rattle from the front of my MCS. The car is driving great, not loose at all, and on the highway, no rattle at all. I get it primarily at lower speeds and, obviously, as I am hitting a succession of small bumps. It sounds more like a loose cable of some kind maybe slapping dully against something as opposed to a metallic clank, but I am getting it from both sides. It seems to be louder in cold weather.

I had the car on a lift at my mechanic last week and he could not see anything. He said everything looked tight and good.

I do have the ALTA PSRS installed, but the control arms are welded on at the end, so I kind of doubt it is that, but maybe it is. I checked the front strut bushings and they look good too.

Anyone have any ideas? I'd really like to solve this mystery!

 

I know I am not a Gen 1 owner but man I have the same issue on my 11' MCS. I am wondering what the hell it could be only at lower speeds and small bumps I hear that little rattle. Good luck to you!

 

Check the sway bar end links and the sway bar bushings. Mine has bad bushings and makes a similar noise to what you are describing. Disconnect the rod ends and drive it over the bumps and see if it goes away.

 

check your motor mounts... you have a hydraulic mount check and see if it has leaked in the past or your lower is fatigued... I had all types of rattles at lower speeds in my 02 and replaced all three engine mounts... no she is quiet

 

Timing chain, 2000 dollar fix. I believe the clubman just had a recall

 

Checked all motor mounts, all look good. I doubt it is the timing chain, feels more like a chassis issue.

It seems if I go over bumps applying the brakes that the rattle is greatly diminished. Does this help narrow it down for anyone?

I keep thinking it is the PSRS bushings, but the mechanic insisted those were in nice and tight.

Thanks for everyone's continued input.

 

Old Game Freak -- Starting to think it is the front end links or the sway bar bushings. I'm hoping it is the former, as that is an easy fix. The latter would require front subframe removal (yikes). Will have mechanic check both on Thursday when I have it in for some other work. Will update then.

Thanks!

 

I had a bad catalytic converter. Was all broken up and eventually was gone, blew out.
See video
http://youtu.be/hXYhDKS8N8c