Chrysler Repair: knocking sound at wheel, plymouth grand voyager, grand voyager

Question
1998 plymouth grand voyager i have recently noticed a tapping noise. it seems as tho it is coming from the right side rear wheel. i have just had brakes and new tires put on, could it be something to do with that

Answer
Hi Nancy,
The main movement at that location, particularly if it is in synchrony with the rotation of the wheel (one click per revolution) is the wheel itself. A friend might walk along with you as you coast slowly to listen for this sound from the outside. I would go back to where the last job was done and have them check to make sure that the lug nuts that hold the wheel to the axle are all tightened to the proper torque (85 to 115 foot-pounds) and that the wheel 'dress' cap is on properly. If they find that it wasn't done right, then all the other wheels should be similarly checked using a torque wrench. Do this promptly so that you don't suddenly have the wheel come off! It is possible that there is a stone trapped in the wheel dress cap but they will discover that when it is removed.
Roland