Creak, Squeak or Pop Noise from Front End of Vehicle Over Rough Road Surfaces or When Braking at Slow Speeds #97-T-50 - (Feb 25, 2003)

1997-1998 Saturns built before and Including VIN WZ152000

Condition

Some owners may comment about a creak, squeak or pop noise coming from the front of the vehicle, while driving over rough road surfaces or when braking at slow speeds. The noise may sound like a dash creak from inside the vehicle.

Cause

The front strut coil spring may be installed in the incorrect location, causing the bottom end of the coil spring to ride up the spring seat ramp at the end of the coil spring. This may cause the end of the coil spring to rub against the active coil above it, creating a noise when the coil spring is compressed.

Important

it is normal for the bottom coil of the spring to make contact with the coil above it. However, the creak, squeak or pop noise is created when the coil spring is mispositioned with the end of the spring riding up the spring seat ramp. (Refer to illustration on next page.)

Correction

Verify that the creak, squeak or pop noise is coming from the front strut coil spring by jouncing the front of the vehicle while listening tot he front strut area. If the spring is held when the noise is present a corresponding vibration may be felt. Inspect the spring for correct positioning on the lower spring mount. If the creak, squeak or pop noise is heard from the front lower spring area and the spring is in the incorrect position, proceed to "Procedures' in this bulletin. If the creak, squeak or pop noise is not heard coming from the front strut lower spring area, road test the vehicle to locate the source of the noise and follow diagnostic procedures located in the appropriate service manual.

Procedure

Caution

MAKE SURE VEHICLE IS PROPERLY SUPPORTED AND SQUARELY POSITIONED ON HOIST. TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY, PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SUPPORT TOT HE OPPOSITE END OF THE VEHICLE THAT COMPONENTS WILL BE REMOVED FROM.

1. Raise vehicle on hoist.
2. Using brass drift punch and hammer, tap the lower end of he coil spring to rotate spring until the end of the coil is approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 in.) from the lower spring seat ramp. (Refer to above illustration.)
3. After coil spring has been adjusted, lower vehicle from hoist and test drive vehicle to make sure concern has been repaired.

Claim Information

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim thought he Saturn Dealer System as follows:

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer".  They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle.  Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely.  If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.  See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

© Copyright General Motors Corporation.  All Rights Reserved.