As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of technical information to the automotive aftermarket, Autodata has over 65 skilled technicians with a comprehensive understanding of those common problems that take up valuable garage time to investigate. In this regular column Autodata’s Technical Team share their fixes to common problems raised through its technical helpline, available to all UK customers.
Mazda 5 – Rear knocking noise
Fault:
We’re having problems finding the source of a knocking noise from the rear of a 2009 Mazda 5 which occurs when driving over rough roads. We’ve checked the rear suspension components but can’t find any excess wear. Do you have any ideas what could be causing this noise?
Fix:
The knocking noise is due to the rear suspension spring upper rubber insulation cup coming adrift as a result of a protruding welding bead. Check if the rear suspension spring upper rubber insulation cup is displaced (Fig 1.1). If the rubber insulation cup is displaced, remove the rear suspension spring and rubber insulation cup. Reduce the height of the welding bead at the rear suspension spring upper mating surface. Fit a modified rubber insulation cup to the rear suspension spring and then refit the rear suspension spring. Road test the vehicle to confirm the fault has been rectified.
