Ford 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual page 102

I1 ROAD TEST THE VEHICLE
Test drive the vehicle.
NOTE: An assistant will be needed for this road test.
During the road test, drive the vehicle over a rough road.
Using ChassisEARs, determine from which
area/component the noise is originating.
Is there a squeak, creak or rattle noise?
I2 REAR SHOCK ABSORBER/STRUT CHECK
WARNING: The electrical power to the air
suspension system must be shut off prior to hoisting,
jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. This can
be accomplished by turning off the air suspension
switch. Failure to do so can result in unexpected
inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result
in shifting of the vehicle during these operations.
Raise and support the vehicle.
Check the rear shock absorber/strut mounts for loose bolts
or nuts.
Check the rear shock absorbers/struts for damage. Carry
out a shock absorber check.
Are the rear shock absorbers/struts loose or damaged?
I3 CHECK THE REAR SPRINGS
Check the rear springs and rear spring mounts/brackets for
wear or damage.
Are the rear springs or spring mounts/brackets worn or
damaged?
I4 CHECK THE CONTROL ARMS/TRAILING ARMS
Inspect the control arm/trailing arm bushings for wear or
damage. Check for loose control arm/trailing arm bolts.
Inspect for twisted or bent control arm/trailing arms.
Are the control arm/trailing arms loose, damaged or
worn?
I5 CHECK THE STABILIZER BAR/TRACK BAR
Check the stabilizer bar/track bar bushings and links for
damage or wear.
Check the stabilizer bar/track bar for damage.
Check for loose or damaged stabilizer bar isolators or
brackets.
Are the stabilizer bar/track bar components loose, worn
or damaged?
PINPOINT TEST J: WHEEL AND TIRE
Test Step
Yes
GO to I2 .
No
The suspension system is
OK. Conduct a diagnosis on
other suspect systems.
Yes
TIGHTEN to specifications if
loose. INSTALL new rear
shock absorbers/struts if
damaged. TEST the system
for normal operation.
No
GO to I3 .
Yes
REPAIR or INSTALL new
components as necessary.
TEST the system for normal
operation.
No
GO to I4 .
Yes
REPAIR or INSTALL new
components as necessary.
TEST the system for normal
operation.
No
GO to I5 .
Yes
REPAIR or INSTALL new
components as necessary.
TEST the system for normal
operation.
No
Suspension system OK.
CONDUCT diagnosis on
other suspect systems.
Result / Action to