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Crunch, Squawk or Grind Noise From Front or Rear Suspension When Driving Over Bumps in Cold Weather (Replace Front or Rear Stabilizer Bar Bushings)

Subject:Crunch, Squawk, or Grind Noise From Front or Rear Suspension When Driving Over Bumps in Cold Weather (Replace Front or Rear Stabilizer Bar Bushings)

Models:2004-2006 Chevrolet Epica



Built Prior to Following VIN Breakpoints:

VIN Breakpoint

Application

6B197212

Vehicles Sold in Canada

6B197240

Vehicles Sold in Other Regions

Condition

Some customers may comment on a crunch, squawk, or grind noise from either the front or rear suspension when driving over bumps at low speed. This condition may be more apparent in cold weather.

Cause

This condition may be caused by friction between the stabilizer bar and bushing.

Correction

Replace the affected bushings and clean all residual grease from the stabilizer bar before installation following the procedures below.

Front Stabilizer Shaft Bushing Replacement

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in SI.

  2. Object Number: 1801710  Size: SH
  3. Remove the old front stabilizer bar bushings. Clean all residual grease from the stabilizer bar.
  4. Install the new front stabilizer bar bushings.
  5. Install the crossmember assembly to the vehicle. Refer to Crossmember Replacement - Front Suspension in SI.
  6. Lower the vehicle.

Rear Stabilizer Shaft Bushing Replacement

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in SI.
  2. Remove the rear stabilizer link. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement in SI.
  3. Remove the rear stabilizer bar bolt, U-clamp, and old bushing. Clean all residual grease from the stabilizer bar.
  4. Install the new rear stabilizer bar bushings.
  5. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the rear stabilizer bar bolt and U-clamp
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the rear stabilizer bar bolt to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

  8. Lower the vehicle.

Parts Information

Part Number

Description

Qty

96475986

Bushing - Stabilizer, FRT (Canada only)

2

96475985

Bushing - Stabilizer, FRT (All other regions, excluding Canada)

2

96475984

Bushing - Stabilizer, RR (Canada only)

2

96475983

Bushing - Stabilizer, RR (All other regions, excluding Canada)

2

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

E2180

Insulator and/or Bracket, Front Stabilizer Shaft at Frame - Replace

Use Published Labor Operation Time

E4187*

Insulator and/or Support, Rear Stabilizer Shaft - Both - Replace

0.3 hr

*This labor operation will be added to the Labor Time Guide in the near future.