'04 Aveo rear shocks

[foobula]

I've got 130k miles on my '04 Aveo. I let the repair shop replace the factory-installed rear shocks at their recommendation. Now, first thing every morning as I pull out, I hear a loud BANG from each side in the rear, as if I just hit several potholes (which I haven't.) I've got it back in the shop, but they went for a test drive and couldn't hear it -- of course, because it only happens first thing in the morning. Does it sound like they just used poor or faulty shocks? The invoice reads "5794 - Gas Shock, Rear" with no brand name listed, $64/each.

I'm obviously going to replace these things one way or the other. Is there a step-up from the cheapest shocks?

[petrified.rabbit]

its possible, that its not the shocks at all. Did it happen more than once? or is it a duration of time every morning?

if it only happens once, then the noise is the springs reseating, (they probably but them in a little off). OR if it happens more often, the spring rubber might be missing..

it is also highly likely the shock mounts were reused and are just as worn out. allowing the strut tops to hit the inner structure of the car making the bang sound.

[foobula]

It seems to happen anytime after the car's been sitting for a few hours. I particularly notice it every morning as I pull out of the parking lot, and it definitely started when they replaced the shocks last week. It's really loud, as loud as someone throwing a rock at the trunk.

I was already hesitant to replace the shocks when I wasn't noticing any particular problems with the back end. Now I'm pissed that it created a whole new problem that didn't exist prior.

[petrified.rabbit]

Based on your description, you need new upper mounts.

If you are feeling "brave" or whatever I suggest you take it back to the garage. agree to pay the $30 they cost, and tell them they should have been included in the first place and that they should now install them for free in order to properly complete the job that was done in the first place.

[foobula]

So I'm picturing a fitting of some sort that isn't secure in the mount and becomes loose overnight. Then it bangs back into place on both sides when I start driving. Sounds simple enough. I'll bring that up when I talk to the shop tomorrow. They're keeping it overnight "to make sure it's fixed" though so far they didn't say what the problem was or get my approval to do any work.

Thanks for the advice.

[foobula]

They replaced both shocks with a different part # 343423 -- if that means anything. Supposedly the ride is back to normal now but I'll know for sure tomorrow morning!

[petrified.rabbit]

thats KYB's part number for GR2 rear shocks.

the first i think is monroe shocks part number.

there is a possibility that the monroe had a longer threaded top for a more universal design. but the tapping is from the tip of the shock hitting the inner wheel house/1/4 panel..

[riksdive4]

was pulling my hair out trying to find this noise.
I replaced customers shocks because the right rear had broken at the top plate.
she came back complaining of a banging noise after car sit for a few hours.
I reploace one shock ( right rear) and test drove car only to find noise louder.

this forum led me to look inside the housing where i found the shock top had been beating the top of the housing.
Thanks for the lead!

[foobula]

Awesome... my problem was solved after the 2nd set of shocks

[FlaAveo5]

thats KYB's part number for GR2 rear shocks.

the first i think is monroe shocks part number.

there is a possibility that the monroe had a longer threaded top for a more universal design. but the tapping is from the tip of the shock hitting the inner wheel house/1/4 panel..

HI Guy. Since you seem to be a very good mech. I might as well ask you this...how hard is it to replace the rear shocks on my o6 hatchback?? I mean do i need any 'special tools' to compress the springs or to remove something that I dont know about. I am assuming that shocks are a fairly simple do it yourself job, i know i couldn't do the struts, that involves doing a realignment and all that,but isnt replacing shocks just taking off the old shock, and slipping in the new ones, tighten everything back up and its done??? OR is something complicated involved? I called my local parts store and all of them tell me my shocks are only like $ 31-35 a piece. But "Foolbula" in this thread says his shocks were like $64 EACH. Is that because he went to a shop, like i always do, but if i can do this on my own, i need to save the cash! If I can do it myself,how long a job can it be for a 'novice'? I was quoted just over $200 to replace them at a local good mech. shop. Is that fair or a rip off? Thanks.