2005 clunk noise from rear after shut off

[ciruelos]

Hello - I picked up my 2005 with 67K miles in Sept 2024 and it’s a joy to drive. I have noticed a mechanical clunk sound coming from the rear after shutting off the car - usually after enough driving that all components are warm. The sound persists for about 5-10 minutes after shutoff, which makes me think it’s related to some heat or fluid related contraction as things cool down. I can almost physically feel the clunk. My coolant level is normal, my temp gauge never travels past the midpoint, and I don’t have any performance issues…I simply don’t want to miss an emerging problem.
I’ve searched all over and haven’t found a similar issue described. I’d really appreciate suggestions and insights from this group. Thanks.

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[biddle]

Have not seen this reported, however our 2004 Jeep did this from a loose bracket underneath!

 

[ciruelos]

I’m planning on having transmission fluid flushed next month and I’ll ask my mechanic for a visual inspection, he is typically very thorough. I’ll be sure to report back on this thread.

 

[Paladin]

Had a similar problem except when I shut off the car it quit, it needed an exhaust bracket added to stop the exhaust rattle, after I purpose built a performance exhaust for the car. sounds like you may have an ignition detonation sequence problem with shut down, might try a bottle of sea foam.

 

[ciruelos]

This may help pinpoint my issue to the exhaust area. Thank you!

 

[Frankie the Fink]

A long shot for sure but maybe check the torque on the underbody X braces....I wonder if they have loosened and are changing dimensions with the heat/cool cycle..

 

[DrDISK]

The Torque Spec is 46 lb/ft

 

[ciruelos]

Following up after a transmission flush. I asked my mechanic to check the torque spec on the x braces and he did find one in the rear that was substantially loose.

Shutting off the engine after my drive into work this morning was a quiet experience - no clunking noise! I’ll keep an ear tuned as warmer weather moves in. A reminder to check those braces and exhaust brackets periodically as part of our maintenance regimen.