bobo487

I have just bought a 03 plate subaru wrx sti and after two days there is a knocking noise coming from the rear suspension???? Have had it up on a ramp and can't seem to see anything that is worn or loose and its really starting to bug me now!!!!

Anyone got any Idea's???????

dynamix

iTrader: (3)

very common fault

it needs new rear struts.

sorry.

scoobydavid

just had new rear struts fitted on mine and 1 week later the noise is starting to come back mines a early 04 sti type uk

B0DSKI

iTrader: (17)

if you've had the struts replaced it can also be caused by the top mounts knocking. Hence the reason mine are being swapped out with KWs.

Mine were replaced twice under warranty and are again knocking like a goodun.

jd5217

remove struts and fit AST

ShyTot

As already mentioned, this is one of the major failings with the inverted suspension on STIs, and from 2005 (I think)on the WRX as well.
The inverted rear struts will last around 25K miles and then they will start to knock. In actual fact they are sticking due to a lack of lubrication. There is a very interesting article here which shows you exactly how to lubricate the struts to stop this, but it is only a temp fix: -

any STi owners have this problem? - Page 2 - Vancouver Impreza Club Forum -- VIC - NASIOC

Your choices are: -
(1) Go to the dealer and try to get them to give you new ones as a good will gesture; they have been doing this ALOT for cars outside warranty if the milage is still low

(2) Buy some new struts and probably top mounts from the dealer and have them fitted. Struts are ~£240 EACH, and top munts about £50, so £600 to £700 pound should see them fitted!!!!!!!!!!!!

(3) Contact KYB (based in Macclesfield?) and buy some of theirs for ALOT less money. As I understand it, KYB actually make the inverted struts for Subaru, so it should pretty much be a like for like replacement (although they are not red/pink. Websit here: -
KYB, World Class Shock Absorbers - Fitted as original equipment to 23% of all new cars

ShyTot

Or you could just live with it.....

I suspect that most do just that. I know I do now :-(