My 1988 Vanden Plas is making a metal on metal sound whenever the drivers side wheel hits a hole in the road. I've checked the wheel, rotar, brakes, and control arm, and believe the noise is from the shock absorber. There is no noticeable bouncing on the front end, but the shocks have 50K miles on them. Some are saying never replace shocks unless there is an issue. I can't believe shocks last for ever. These are Bilstein. Could it be more likely the bushing and not the shock?

 

Usually and almost always the upper bushings. Easy job to replace, they are a common maintenance item on the XJ40

Larry

 

Thanks.

 

Lawrence,
You are correct. I just examined the top portion of the shock in question, and the bushing has disintegrated. Easy repair.

 

Yay!!! An easy fix!!!!