Hi I have a 1996 SSEI and am getting a clunking sound from the front suspension, mostly when backing up. I took it in and my mechanic said everything was tight and if it gets worse bring it back. I noticed my touring ride and performance ride console buttons were both on and the manual says when that happens you have a service problem and take it to a dealer. I was wondering if this is an air-ride related problem or Strut problem and has anyone had this problem before or have any comments. I was also wondering if anyone knows what the Air inflator switch in the trunk is for?? Please advise before I take it back to the garage. Thanks! Patioo.

The air inflator'* for filling up beach balls, and the occasional flat - the attachments.shipped in a bag that came with the cars. Check you trunk, but many times they have been lost in a used car. Dealer can replace it pretty reseasonably.

The air ride should not affect your front suspension in this way, but the indicators do mean some problem or another. The clunking noise is probably CV shaft, brake or bearing related. Does it just clunk once when you back up, or is it a repeating clunk as you continue to move?

Thanks Rhamby, I'll check the trunk by the spare tire for the hose. The clunking sound is is just once or twice. I notice it more when I'm turning the steering wheel while backing up and occasionally when steering and going foreward. I have replaced the front hub because the ABS / Traction control sensor was shot (not cheap) and recently put new rotors on the front. I thought ball joints but my mechanic said they looked okay. Also there are 2 hoses on that air compressor at the back and I noticed the one going towards the front had come off so I put it back on. I'm not sure where it goes to or what its for. Does this compressor control the air ride for the whole car? Do you think my struts are gone, the car has aprox. 175,000 KM on it and perhaps they're due. Any comments would be appreciated. Thanks Patioo.