suspension question

Kind of hard to judge side play. I look at tire wear and handling of the car. Now the noise could be coming from a loose and worn stablizer in the front. It is often difficult to find without putting the car on a rack to let the suspension system loosen up. Generally, when you hit a bump, small ones as well, the car actually is off the ground. If you can't find it, take it to a mechanic and have him put it up and look for it. Have him show you what he found.

I'm not sure what the "clank" sound you hear is, but I do know that for civics and accords, the suppension is normally tight since they ride low. If you could only get it down to about 1 inch or so, how hard was it to get it there? If it takes a lot (lets say you weigh 200 lbs and are in shape) of effort to push it, then I wouldn't worry about it.

As far as actual cost, the parts for both sides of the front end are approx. $120.00 each, labor varies from $50.00-$100.00 per hour depending on who you take it too. I would estimate about 2-4 hours for both to be removed and installed.

Keep in mind that when you replace the shock absorbers or springs, the car will be out of alignment, which cost about $100.00.