Suspension - Groaning/Squeaking Noises
Date: March 30, 2006Order No.: P-B-32.22/37a
Supersedes: P-B-32.22/37 dated March 14, 2006
Group: 32
Revision History
Revision Date Purpose
a 3/30/06 Work Procedure and Warranty Information Updated
- 3/14/06 Initial issue
SUBJECT:
Model 221.171 Model Year 2007
Airmatic Suspension Noises
If you receive customer reports in the above model vehicles of a suspension groaning/squeaking noise from one of the vehicle's Airmatic struts while driving on rough roads or over road surface irregularities, replace the affected axle's Airmatic struts with revised parts. The Airmatic struts must be replaced in pairs (front or rear axle). Reference the following WIS documents: AR32.25-P-1016SX (remove / install rear suspension strut) and/or AR32.25-P-1017SX (remove / install front suspension strut).
Note:
Parts are in extremely limited supply, thus supply shortages may exist.
Note:
The noise condition is caused by the Airmatic strut's stop buffer rubbing on the piston rod.
Note:
As of the following VINs, revised parts have been installed in series production:
Front Suspension: A015400
Rear Suspension: A027500
Note:
The noise condition is most pronounced when driving with the transmission in "Sports" mode (S displayed in instrument cluster) and after the vehicle is driven for an extended period of time. Reference page 374 in the owner's manual for selecting transmission modes.
Note:
Only for this particular condition and up to the corresponding VIN's should the Airmatic struts be replaced in pairs (front axle or rear axle). The right rear Airmatic strut is typically the most common source of noise, although any strut could be affected. The rear suspension strut noise may be perceived to be emanating from the c-pillar area.
Parts Information
Note:
The following allowable labor operations should be used when submitting a warranty claim for this repair.
In Case of Warranty, use the table.