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Front end groaning and rumbling

J

jammy

New member
Hi:

1999 SE/GT 3.8. 90K miles.

I hear groaning/rumbling sounds from the front end when:
  • Initially moving the car from a parking spot
  • Slow speed (crawling), so no other road noises present
  • Usually happens when taking a sharp turn to get out of a parking space
  • Usually when going in reverse (e.g. backing out of a space)

I don't hear any noises when driving straight ahead or when turning the wheels at regular street speeds.

Any ideas what might be causing this?
 


I'd bet you a dollar that this only happens once and doesn't do it again untill you start the car again right?

If so that is the ABS self test that happens every key cycle. Seems the older the cars get the more people notice it, the pumps aren't as quiet anymore. Just about every single vehicle does this atleast on the GM side anyway, I can't even tell it happens on my 2012 silverado.
 
Is the noise louder when you turn the wheel all the way to one side while parked?

If so, it could be the power steering pump making noise when it's maxed out, I've heard that in every car or truck I've ever driven.

If it happens when the steering wheel is turned to any degree while parked, might want to look for the how-to/write up on flushing power steering fluid. Fluid tends to thin and break down after a while, that's why we change it out semi-regularly.

Some fluid lasts longer than others, so 90-100k miles sounds like a good time to at least check the power steering fluid for color, contamination, consistency... Should be similar to trans fluid in terms of color and consistency.

Also check all of the normal suspension components: ball joints, tie rods, the bushings in the control arms, sway bar links, wheel bearings, etc. If you are unsure about how to check those, a Haynes or, if you can find one, a Chiltons repair manual should be good for the basic stuff.

I use it just because it has some information that is hard to find otherwise, and wiring diagrams. But for someone with less or almost no mechanical experience, it's worth the 10 bucks.
 
Thanks, guys. I am doubtful about these suggestions. Let me tell you why.

1) ABS - it happens only when I move the car. The ABS self test should happen even when stationary, right after start, right?
2) Steering pump - It doesn't need the steering wheel to be turned to either extreme position. I am familiar with the steering noise, which is more of a whine. This is a groan/grumble/rumble.

My noise is definitely related to the car moving slowly when the wheel is turned. I feel like it has to do with a major suspension component, but I don't know which one. because the car is old, and very low mileage, I'm thinking something like bushings for torsion bar, suspension arm, stabilizer bar, or struts.
 


Replaced both wheel bearings last year (5K ago)

The noise is more related to body movement than wheel rotation.
 
ABS self test will not start untill the vehicle is moved.

You say it happens when you leave a parking spot for the first time, well when it does it stop and pull right back into the spot. Then do it over again with the vehicle still running. So park it again and go right back into reverse, if it does the noise again then you know it's likely not the ABS test as it only does it once per drive cycle. But if it doesn't happen again, well then.............
 
Hmm... What size are your wheels/tires? There's a possibility they could be rubbing on something. Strut, sway bar link, piece of plastic trim not where it's supposed to be...

Did you check all of the suspension components I listed?
 
Thanks for the added suggestions. Will try later today.

Fivefinger: I'll try as you said and do in both directions, and on smooth and rough surfaces.
WarStryker: I'll check tire sizes and look for any contact. BTW, I am the original owner and the wheels are original, although tires are 2ns set. However, if I recall correctly, this was happening with original tires too.

I'll get back later. Enjoy the weekend.
 
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