Hi, I’ve owned my Saturn Aura for almost 11 years. I’ve kept up the maintenance and had all recall work done. Aside from that, no real problems until this mysterious thumping sound. Mechanic has checked front end, back end, belts and has found nothing. Please help.

 

What area of the vehicle is the thumping coming from? Approximately?

When do you hear the noise (hi speeds, lo speeds, high rpms, low rpms, accelerating, decelerating?)

Pulling away from a stop, coming to a stop, hitting potholes, going over curb height bumps, when turning one way or the other, when driving straight.

The more thoroughly you can describe the sound when it always happens AND when it doesn't, along with the general location of the sound, the easier it will be for us to help you

 

I agree with derf. Your description of a thumping noise is too vague. My initial thought would be sway bar bushings, tie rod end links or struts. BUT, you didn't give enough information for any of this to be applicable.

 

The thumping sound seems to be coming from the right front end. Only happens at speeds over 30 mph. It doesn’t thump when I apply the brakes. Hope this helps.

 

Does it thump when you turn into a driveway at low speeds? I would bet it has bad swaybar links.

 

Is it a rhythmic regular thump that always happens over 30 mph or is it intermittent, like maybe on rough road?

 

The sound is consistent at speeds over 30 mph.

 

Assuming it increases with vehicle speed,
Flat spotted or out of round tire?

Can you feel it in the steering wheel?

 

Had all tires checked. Thanks

 

How were the tires checked? If they didn't try balancing each one, there's no obvious signs of a broken belt inside.