I have read archives and discussions on this yet no definitive solutions or answers - is there a tsb for crossfire? The 320 seems to have one (see below).

It occurs only when shifting into 1st or reverse.

I had my generic mechanic take a look and seemed to think it was loose bushing on the rear axle mount but then I am not sure. The bushing seemed to have play but could be intentional.

The following is from mercedes 320 slk service bulletin:

Problem: Clunking, knocking, clicking behind the passenger seat.
There is a common issue with most SLK 320s and SLK 32 AMG cars.
This related to the fuel and emission control systems in these cars.
There is an emissions valve located behind the passenger seat that can make a clicking, thumping or knocking noise.
This noise is best heard when the car is at a complete stop and the top is closed.
This issue is normal but some earlier 320s can have this valve updated to reduce its occurrence.
The service bulletin # is 103/P-B 47.30/15 Shut Off Valve.
Also may go by this number : 47/3045.

 

There have been several posts concerning this but no clear answer. I will see what dealer says...

 

I am familiar with the SLK 32 site that has the same article as you describe. I've had the exact same noise since my car was new, but I haven't heard it for awhile now. I almost forgot about it until you brought it up.

The noise sounds like a loud thud, or pop, which only occurs while sitting still with the engine running. I thought about taking it to the dealer, but decided against it after having the transmission and rear end changed and almost everything else in between worked on. After my last bout with them and the hassle I got in getting my seat cover installed properly, I've finally realized when it comes to this car and Chrysler, some things are best left alone. I did not want them tearing up the bulkhead and all the trim behind the seats to fix a problem that happens only infrequently.

I don't think anyone here has addressed the issue with a Chrysler dealer. Can you imagine the BS you'd run into trying to get it fixed? It seems to me that the Crossfire has been all but abandoned by the dealerships who are starting to breath a sigh of relief as warranties started to expire this past June.

 

In my case it only happens when moving from a stop in first or reverse.
It seems to come from outside under the trunk area like a thump - sometimes several thumps - a sudden stop does not create it.

So far I have read that the cause was:

1. loose sway bar.
2. wrong gas.
3. fuel valve.
4. gas tank popping from not venting.

 

Evidently, it is the end links on stabilizer bar.
The parts are ordered and will find out.
The tech did find this symptom and solution on a dealer connect web site.

 

55,

Any luck with the knocking fix? I have the same issue on my '05 limited, 6 speed. Always sitting still, maybe twice a week.

Thanks!

 

Definitely interested in how this turned out. I have a clunking noise coming from the rear during acceleration, especially when I accelerate slowly, and braking. The clunking normally only occurs when the car has been sitting for a couple of hours and then disappears after a couple of minutes of running. No one has been able to give a plausible explanation for it, but it was not there when I purchased the car.

Kevin

 

In my case, it ended up being the bushings on the rear stabilizer bar links.
You can try tightening or replace to solve problem.
Good luck.

 

typhoon55,

Thanks for the response. I will bring this to the dealer and see what happens. I'll post the final solution to this site.

Kevin

 

Final solution, the dealership did not properly tighten the differential after removing it to diagnose a grinding sound coming from the rear. This resulted in damage to the drive shaft coupler/bushing. Parts have been replaced an sound is no longer present.

Kevin