Mitsubishi Repair: Rubbing noise - rear of 2003 Eclipse Spyder, rear control arm, eclipse spyder

Question
I have a rubbing noise that seems to be coming from the real of my spyder - mitsu and independent mechanic could not find the cause.  noticeable at slow speed - more like a rubbing sound rather than a grating sound.  have had brakes checked numerous times.  thanks - jim

Answer
Jim,
Noises are the toughest things to diagnosis.  Do you notice the noise more if your top is up or down?  You may have a worn bushing on your rear control arm.  That can cause a rubbing noise.  If you also notice the noise when turning, it may be a worn coil spring bumper.  Those are rubber bumpers are located at the top of the shock housing.  Sometimes those rubber bumpers become worn and brittle and allow the spring to twist slightly.  That can cause an occassional rubbing noise.  If you've had any suspension work down recently, that may be a possible cause.  Have a couple friends (one's that aren't too tall ;-) ) sit in your back seat while you drive and see if they can pinpoint exactly where the noise is coming from.  Once you know exactly where the sound is originating, the cause will be easier to fix.
Good luck!