The noises of my car, what could they be?

Question

Own an 03 Corolla with 32k miles.

I can hear a tapping noise when I go over bumps, like something may be hitting something else.

The weird thing about it is that the noise is most distinctive only when it is really cold out. Undernormal temperatures, I really can't hear anything.

What's up with my car?

Answer 1

First I would like to ask how the roads are that you drive on. Most rough roads and dirt roads can make even the newest of cars start to rattle. Parts in the suspension will most likely be the culprit. I had a friend recently that had the same problem with her car, when she took it to the shop they installed a whole new suspension, and it still makes the same noises. I dont think you need to worry, but for your cars sake, I would call and see if any of your local shops do free check ups. You will find most will put it up on the rack and do a visual for free, they may try to sell you a new suspension, unless they can show you obvious damage dont fall for it.......A car is a very important investment so I can understand you asking, just to be safe let someone look at it.

If it really bothers you, do like I did, find it. I used a rubber malet and tapped on all the parts around the tire, suspension untill I heard a rattle, and found one of the tierods had a worn bushing.......I got the whole thing at the junk yard for 10 bucks......

Good luck, hope its nothing serious.....

Answer 2

Naturally, when it's cold, the engine takes a little time to heat up to it's normal temperature, and thus, runs a little rough. That's quite normal. What I would suggest is that when it's a little cold, turn your car on and let the engine run idle for about two minutes before you take the car out. As for the noises, check to see if there isn't anything stuck in the axle or behind the tire. Sometimes, you can pickup debris that's on the road and when you turn, you can hear a strange sound. Once, I picked up a piece of cardboard, and I hadn't realized it until I decided to see for myself what the sound was. If it were something really serious, it could be an axle that's been damaged, or your car may need wheel alignment. Another possibility is the power steering, but I doubt it.- Your car is too new and it has very little mileage on it.