Hey guys, quick question. I have a 1996 A4 2.8. When I go over any bumb, even a small one, i can hear a noise. When I go over a patchy road, I hear a lot of noises, which aren't very load, but yet audible. It sounds like something is loose. I went to the mechanic and they said thats theres a 90% chance the strut plates are bad. The suspension is completely stock. Anyone have an idea what might be causing the noise. Is the mechanic right? Any help is appreciated. Thanks much.

I've never quite heard that term used on an A4 before, especially since we don't use struts.

With a '96, there's a good chance that there are a number of issues to look at. Your struts could be bad as well as 1 or more control arms and tie rod ends. These are all very common problems with the A4 suspension and each component should be inspected.

when you're within the warranty period.

I just R&R'd all of my tie rod ends and ball joints.....Eliminated that same bump noise by 90%. While down there, I noticed my right side tie rod was bent, so I've ordered a new one. Once installed, I'm thinking the "clunk" will be totally gone. After driving like that for a few thousand, it wore my right front tire on the inside and my alignments all messed up. I was able to get parts for about $240 and did the work myself. Most shops will charge close to $1000 for the work! Whole tie rod assemblies are between $60 and $80 on the unmentionable website.
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I know they screwed the pooch working on my car and they're not owning up to it.

But that's OK, 8 days until the appointment to have my car fixed at a shop that deals with nothing but German cars and exotics.

Nice animation BTW

Took my car to an indi shop and they found that the bolt that attaches the control arm to the subframe was loose.

Also found that the right front caliper wasn't freely sliding on the guide pins thus causing some noise.

Also found some loose stuff on the rear suspension and one of my brand new rear wheel bearings is toast because the neanderthal who did the work didn't install it correctly thus causing noise.