2008 Chrysler Sebring scary noises!

NICOLEMC

MEMBER
2008 CHRYSLER SEBRING
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
30,000 MILES

Most of the noises occur when I brake (a low grinding and rattling sound) but they also randomly occur while i'm driving, mostly in the city (a low "womp-womp-womp" sound accompanied by rattling). I've taken good care of the car over the past couple years but really can't afford serious costly repairs. I know I need to get it taken care of, I don't want to cause any accidents or further damage but i'm scared to take it to the dealership because I don't have the money it will probably require. Please help!

Friday, March 12th, 2010 AT 10:00 PM

1 Reply

ERNEST CLARK

MECHANIC
1,730 POSTS

Is your car still under warranty? I would think you still have many miles left.

Anyway, it's quite possible you have more than one issue.

A "Low grinding and rattling sound" when you apply the brakes is either excessively worn brake pads or loose/missing retainer springs.

The "womp, womp, womp" that you hear while driving could be a warped rotor, which can occur if your pads were excessively worn and overheated the rotors.

Also a common noise for vehicles with alloy rims that have "Center caps" is the tension spring sometimes comes loose/falls out on the inside. This will make an intermittent rattle while driving.

Finally, whatever your issue turns out to be, you never want to keep driving a vehicle when there's a suspected brake problem.

You're taking unnecessary risk with your life as well as others!

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Monday, March 15th, 2010 AT 10:44 PM