I replaced all the struts on my 2008RX 350 AWD a few months ago. I used all Lexus parts. I've noticed that when I go over some bumps, there seems to be a clunk in the right rear strut area that wasn't there before I changed the struts. I know that I torqued all the bolts to spec and I've doubled checked most of those that are accessible. I've read that I probably should have replaced the upper bearing and suspect that might be making the noise, but I'm not sure. Any suggestions on how to check this out without removing the strut? I can remove it if necessary, since I still have all the equipment to do so, but it would be nice to know that the bearing is the problem so that I can buy a new one and replace it when I remove the strut. Also, is the alignment affected when I remove the lower strut mounts? I had the alignment done when I replaced all the struts and don't want to do that if it's not necessary. Thanks for your input. Bob

 

I had a very similar problem after doing my front strut mine turned out to be the brake caliper wasn't torque really bugged me for over a month. I do not believe the rear strut mount has a bearing only the fronts do. There are only a few components but it's of bolts so should be bad. Did you remember the bump stop? How are your sway bar bushings and more likely the sway bar links? Double check all bolts systematically. As for rear alignment I believe you're fine front needs to be done after struts or LCA's

 

Thanks for the advice, Leeper. Much appreciated. I'll check out those things you mentioned. Definitely could be coincidental that something else wore out around the same time as the struts. I've got about 95,000 miles on the RX now so things can be showing their age.
Bob

 

I feel like the stabilizer end links should be the first thing that should be tested. Changed mine twice due to clunks

 

Ditto as they are wear items as well.......

 

Thanks for all the input. I'll let you know the outcome once I get the vehicle in the air. It's still a bit too cold to work outside so it'll be a few weeks before I get to it.
Bob

 

Sway bar links are extremely easy to check, - remove the wheel, grab the sway bar link and try twisting it... if it twists easily or makes any sound replace it. Matt posted a wonderfully detailed write-up on both front and rear sway bar links other than OEM the rears cost me maybe $14 for both...these are wear items that at the age of our cars should be done anyway as a maintenance item same with the fronts... both sets are very quick and easy to replace do them regardless of whether they seem OK. Sway bar bushings are another item that cost less than $10, are rubber so should be replaced either of these could be a problem but at that price and age do them anyway. Yeah I get the "too cold outside". I'm in Boise... in a week it'll be 75 woohoo!