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1996 Mercury Cougar rattling
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Neti
User
May 17, 2014, 9:05 AM
Post #1 of 2
(1675 views)
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1996 Mercury Cougar rattling
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Hello,everyone.
I have a 1996 mercury cougar XR7, 4.6L V8. It has about 82,000 on it.
My issue is that while driving I've noticed a thudding/rattling noise coming from either the right or left wheel,whenever the car is on rough or uphill roads. It sounds similar to the noise you hear from a door that's not closed all the way, like something moving around and tapping something. It also doesn't sound like metal on metal, as it's fairly quiet, like a loose part.
It's harder to notice when going faster. It's definitely not an engine noise, but there's nothing visibly wrong showing with the suspension. Checked the ball joints and they seem solid, but this noise worries me as I'm taking it in for
a Maryland inspection and want to know the possibilities so it can pass. I've checked the door and the trunk, but nothing there. I do know that the boots for the upper ball joints are gone and the joints are rusty/dry.
I am fully aware noises are completely useless for troubleshooting and that it could be almost anything, but if I could have an idea of what suspension or rough area is at fault I would greatly appreciate it. The car has been sitting for a few months, so I don't know if that has had any effect.
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 17, 2014, 9:13 AM
Post #2 of 2
(1670 views)
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Re: 1996 Mercury Cougar rattling
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You should have the steering and suspension checked out professionally before your inspection. You know you have rotted out upper ball joints, so those are going to need to be replaced.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
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