1997 Dodge Caravan

Tiny
ROBERT_MYERS666
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 6 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
I have a '97 dodge grand caravan with a 3.8 liter, 6 cylinder engine and when im driving I hear this noise that sounds like its coming from the front of the vehicle and I only hear it when im inside the vehicle but not outside. What do you think it could be?
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Sunday, August 7th, 2011 AT 10:30 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,699 POSTS
You gotta at least describe what it sounds like. I can think of a dozen different noises with different causes. Does turning affect it? Does the noise change with vehicle speed? Any other clues or observations?
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Sunday, August 7th, 2011 AT 11:59 PM
Tiny
ROBERT_MYERS666
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Its like a grinding noise but I doubt its the brakes cause I replaced them a week ago
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Monday, August 8th, 2011 AT 8:19 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
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The brakes are new and a new noise started about the same time? Take it back to the shop that did the work and let them inspect it to see if it's something as simple as a bent backing plate rubbing on the rotor or rust buildup that didn't get fully machined off a rotor.
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Monday, August 8th, 2011 AT 8:44 PM
Tiny
ROBERT_MYERS666
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Well ive already done that. They said it sound like it was coming from either the tie rod ends or the strut mounting
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Monday, August 8th, 2011 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
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Neither of those are going to make a grinding noise. The upper strut mounts can cause an intermittent clunking noise over bumpy roads or when turning but not a constant noise.

If your mechanic can't find the true cause of the noise, try jacking the front tires off the ground, then running it in gear and listening by each wheel. Also see if the noise occurs when you just turn each wheel by hand. If you can't hear it that way, there is a tool called the "Chassis Ear" that will help. It's a set of six microphones, a switch box, and headphones. You clip the microphones to suspect parts, then switch between them while listening during a test drive. You might find that tool at an auto parts store that borrows or rents tools.

Front wheel bearings can become noisy too. It's very common for them to sound like an airplane engine. Sometimes the buzzing will get quieter or louder when you turn slightly such as when changing lanes.
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Tuesday, August 9th, 2011 AT 12:22 AM
Tiny
ROBERT_MYERS666
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Ok ill try that. But the thing is you only hear it inside the car not outside
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Tuesday, August 9th, 2011 AT 8:26 PM

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