Expert: Robert Summers - 12/13/2007

Question
Turning off the parking lights today resulted in a 10 second series of clicks from the right retractible headlight.  Checking produced the same result repeatedly when turning on either the parking lights which doesn't require opening the headlights or when turning on or off the headlights.  This is my second Vet and probably the last, unless I can be convinced that GM has improved its act.  Any idea what this new amusement is caused by?  
Also there is a rattle when going over bumps in the pavement on the left rear which I have tried to identify with no luck.  Sounds like the exhaust system bumping the chassis or body, but I can't seem to locate it.  The shocks and suspension as well as the exhaust seem tight.  Thanks

Answer
Hi Clem... have you checked the headlight relay for a ground problem...i take it that the lights work ok. rattle in the chassie are had to chase as sound will travel and where you think the noise could be will be somewhere else. try looking at all the stablizer links, check both up and down as well as front to back movement. check rear control arem bushings as they are a known source of noise, exhaust could be another try moving side to side if up and down doesn't produce a noise. weak bushings and rubbers are usually the cause of noise in vets and some will drive you nuts to find. i have restored many and spent hours finding squeeks and rattles.Another trick i have learned is to lube the rubbers and bushings and see if that makes it go away...bushings have a metal insert in them for the bolt and sometimes that is where the noise is and you can't see it...hope this helps...Merry Christmas