Front End Noise (Getting In Car, Parking, Bumps)

jgilland · Nov 23, 2005

I've got lots of front end noise in my 02 Passat. I've told the dealer about it like the last 5 times I've been there. The first time they lubed stuff, ever since then they claim they don't hear it.

The noise sounds like an old spring in a matress as you sit down (think jumping up and down on a bed type noise). It happens when I sit in the car. It also happens as I go over speed bumps. It also happens if, for example, I park on a hill. As I let out on the brake and the car wabbles forward, it makes the noise.

Also, today, as I went over a speed bump, it sounds like something broke in the same area (think breaking the bed as you jumped on it).

Any ideas?

StewPidass0 · Nov 23, 2005

Stick your ear under the front wheel well & push down on the fender to compress the springs. You should be able to tell if it's coming from above or below the shock. If above UCA...if below lower CA...if in rear tie rod end.

jgilland · Nov 23, 2005

StewPidass0 said:
Stick your ear under the front wheel well & push down on the fender to compress the springs. You should be able to tell if it's coming from above or below the shock. If above UCA...if below lower CA...if in rear tie rod end.

You mean, if it comes from the rear of the car, then it is the TRE? Also, I'm under bumper-bumper until Dec 03. Anyone know if control arms are covered in the power/drive warranty?

Tom Parish · Nov 24, 2005

Lift up you front end and grap each wheel trying to move it side to side. If either moves then it's probably you upper control arms (UCA). This can be confirmed by taking the wheel off and seeing if you can move either UCA. Lower control arms are much harder to diagnose. As for the TREs visually check the boots and see if they are intact. I'm sure others will chime in with more specific advice.

Front End Noise (Getting In Car, Parking, Bumps)

Our Vendors

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities