How to diagnose suspension squeak?

[RLJett]

I've developed a slight squeak/pop in the rear passenger suspension...happens over speed bumps and sometimes when turning. I had an A6 and TT previously, and had similar issues on the front suspensions of those...usually a bad control arm or sway bar link. I have always let the dealer figure it out. But how would I go about figuring out the issue on my Boxster (2005 base model)? The control arms are quite expensive so I would want to make sure I replace the right part.

I can probably disconnect the sway bar link from the sway bar and then drive over some speed bumps to determine if that link is the issue, right? Obviously, I'd have less stability in the rear with the sway bar disconnected, but if just rolling over speed bumps I should be OK?

If the noise is still there, what next? There are two control arms attached to the hub, one from in front of the wheel well and the other from the engine. I tried a visual and pulling on them with my hands but nothing jumped out at me.

BTW...I have also considered lack of grease on the sway bar bushings but I had this issue on my TT and the sound is not the same. Although if the sound does go away after disconnecting the sway bar, I will reconsider.

Any thoughts?

[paulmiller869]

sounds good. let us know what you determine and how you solve it.