Clunking type noise from front - Strut Bearings?
I have a 1999 Solara SLE with 79k miles, and I am getting some noise from the front end, that seems to be getting more noticeable. It seems to be from the right front, and happens when I drive on roads that have some bumps. I did some searching on the net, and this board, and it seems there are some issues with the strut bearings.
I found this at http://yotarepair.com/Suspension.html
The guy at the local Toyota dealership said this is an expensive fix, like $600-700. (I haven't taken my car in to have it checked yet).
Is this a typical price for this work? I am assuming this would just be to replace the bearings, or would it be the entire strut assembly?
Any thoughts on this? And if I was going to have this done, is my best bet to go with the OEM parts, or are there better aftermarket parts?
Thanks!
Steve
Spokane, WA
I found this at http://yotarepair.com/Suspension.html
Q: I have received a lot of questions about noise from the front end over some slight bumps or washboard roads. These can affect the Avalon, Camry, Solara, Sienna and Corolla.
A: Many of these noises are caused by the inner tie rod end in these vehicles. The models affected and covered in Service Bulletins are: 95-00 Avalon, 97-00 Camry (USA built), 99-00 Solara, 98-00 Sienna, 98-99 Corolla. You may bear a squeaking type noise going over bumps that may go away after some driving. Your dealer has the information to assist you or you can ask me for the parts numbers. In Camry's the noise can also be caused by the upper strut bearings. It generally takes a "speed bump" type of condition to hear it but pot holes will do in a pinch. It really affected the 97-99 models and Toyota dealers know of the solution. It's not cheap since the strut has to be removed and the new bearing assy installed but it's the only way to solve that noise."
The guy at the local Toyota dealership said this is an expensive fix, like $600-700. (I haven't taken my car in to have it checked yet).
Is this a typical price for this work? I am assuming this would just be to replace the bearings, or would it be the entire strut assembly?
Any thoughts on this? And if I was going to have this done, is my best bet to go with the OEM parts, or are there better aftermarket parts?
Thanks!
Steve
Spokane, WA
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