I have a 1999 LS400, mileage just under 120k, and I've been experiencing a knocking sound coming from the right side of the front end. mainly it's at speeds under 30, and the rate of knocking varies with speed. it also stops whenever you use the brakes in the least bit.

Any suggestions?

 

"Knocking" as in engine pinging or a "clunking', "thump" when driving over rougher roads?

Lots of discussion on various suspension wear issues and at 120K miles, it's a good possibility suspension bushings or other parts are worn.

 

Sounds like strut bars. They seem to be the first to go out. Might want to try and re-tighten thigns down there first.

 

maybe strut mounts... or summin in the suspension... try checkin that... blown struts/shocks? and yea i would agrree wit suspenion problems... but brakes... hmm...maybe a wheel bearing, but does the wheel vibrate? or any high speed whining?

 

I would get your brakes checked for loose components such as missing pad clips or caliper bolts as well as the strut rod bars.

 

not engine related. rough roads also don't make a difference.


no wheel vibrations or high speed whining. The knocking doesn't affect the way the car drives in anyway.

 

it could be the infamous bushing problems.

 

I recently installed Bilsteins and a Tom's STB under the hood. I too have a strange pop that comes and goes on the right front. Speed shop says all is tight. RA40 - what busings are you referring to (lower/upper control arm)?