Questions and Answers

Jeep Cherokee Wheel Noise Q. I drive a 1999 Jeep Cherokee Classic, 2WD, 6-cylinder with 57,000 miles. When I back-up the Jeep, I hear a "metallic" popping sound coming from the front of the vehicle. Sounds like it's coming from near the front wheel(s) I can not tell if it is coming from the right, left or both, but I think the left side front.

The sound occurs most of the time after the tires rotate approximately one rotation. Some time two or three rotations. I hear the popping sometimes when I turn the Jeep left or right at slower speeds. The sound does not happen all the time so when I take it in, the mechanic can not hear it. Someone told me it maybe the CV joint(s). I am not a mechanic so I am not sure what these do, but I think it has sometime to do with the transmission. I don't think the popping is coming from the transmission.

I went to the internet looking for CV joint info and that is when I found your site. Any ideas?

Thanks,
Mike

A. There was a TSB, number 02-08-99 issued 6/25/99 about the lower shock bolts. From the bulletin:

MODELS:
1997 - 1999 (XJ) Cherokee

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
A rattling or knocking noise may be present coming from the front suspension. This could be caused by a loose lower front shock absorber mounting bolt. A new bolt has been released which will allow the torque specification to be increased to 25-ft. lbs.

I'll bet that is the cause of the noise you are hearing.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA