Guys,
I lubricated the strut tops and cylinder rods and the rattle went away for 100 miles. When it gets very cold, like today, the noise is still there if I don't lubricate. I need a long term fix and am willing to spend a few bucks. It appears to be either the struts, strut mounts, or a combination of both. I have replaced the strut linkages and the stabilizer bushings and got no relief.
I have priced fully assembled struts/springs/mounts at Tirerack.com at $225 per wheel. My local mechanic is willing to put them on for $100 plus an alignment. Out the door at $600 and nearly the entire front suspension will be new. How does this sound?