What Causes the Camry to Make Noise When Driving Over Bumpy Roads?
4 Answers
The noise when a Camry drives over bumpy roads is usually caused by damage to the shock absorber's plane bearing or aging of the front shock absorber's buffer rubber. The connection points between the shock absorber and the car body are equipped with buffer rubber, which tends to harden and age over time. When the hardened rubber is compressed, it produces a clunking sound. Solutions: If the buffer rubber has aged, simply replacing the rubber will suffice. If the shock absorber is damaged or leaking, the shock absorber needs to be replaced. It is best to choose genuine parts for replacement, as their quality is more reliable. Methods to Reduce Shock Absorber Damage: Avoid aggressive driving: Aggressive driving not only shortens the lifespan of the shock absorbers but also significantly impacts other car components. Slow down on bumpy roads: When driving over bumpy roads or speed bumps, try to slow down. Ideally, both wheels should pass over the speed bump simultaneously to better protect the car.
I've driven a Camry for many years, and rattling noises on bumpy roads are quite common. It's mostly due to issues with the suspension system, such as aging or leaking shock absorbers or loose components, which cause metal parts to squeak when rubbing against each other over bumps. It could also be worn stabilizer bar bushings—those rubber cushions crack over time and make creaking noises when going over potholes. Another possibility is problems with the tires or wheels, like uneven wear causing the vehicle to wobble. I recommend first checking if the chassis bolts are tight; you can try tightening them yourself with a wrench. For regular maintenance, don’t forget to replace the shock absorbers and check the chassis lubrication every few tens of thousands of kilometers. Addressing these minor issues promptly can save you from bigger troubles and ensure better safety. If all else fails, take it to a professional shop—don’t delay, as it could affect driving stability.
My Camry makes noises on rough roads, and I suspect it's mainly due to suspension or bearing issues. I've encountered many similar cases when repairing cars, with the most common being wear on the ball joints of the control arms, where bumps and vibrations cause metal parts to collide and make sounds. Loose exhaust system hangers could also be the culprit, with metal pipes rattling underneath the car. Rust on tires or wheel hub bearings can also create strange noises. I usually start with a self-inspection, lifting the vehicle to check for looseness in the suspension and then applying some lubricant to test. For prevention, regularly washing the undercarriage to prevent rust and driving gently over bumps can extend their lifespan. If the problem persists, a quick diagnosis at a repair shop won't cost much and can prevent minor issues from becoming major ones.
If the Camry makes noise when going over bumps, I suspect it could be a broken sway bar link or a damaged shock absorber, causing direct vibration and noise. Sometimes it's a tire issue or loose brake components, so it's necessary to check if the wheel nuts are not tightened properly. I've dealt with similar issues before; severe abnormal noises can affect handling. It's best not to attempt random repairs but to take it to a professional shop to inspect the suspension system.
