Strange Noise?

Question

I have a 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. I noticed today that it was making a strange noise. It sounds like it is coming from the back of the car but I'm really not sure. The noise usually comes when I'm on a bumpy road but I've heard it on smooth roads also.
I'm going to try to explain the noise.....
A little skweaky/rattling...I thought maybe my door was open a little but it wasn't.... it is also kind of like when you are tuning in an AM radio station and right before you get to the station.....it makes a funny noise.
I've never had any issues with my car. It is a lot colder here now....maybe that could be causing it?
I just don't know if I should worry? Or have it looked at??
Thanks in advance!!!

Thanks for the answers.....
so it probably isn't anything serious?? Not that expensive??
I'll still be OK driving it until it is checked out??

Answer 1

it could be bad shocks, some times they skweak] have some one bounce the back of your car hardly and listen to se exactly were it's coming from

Answer 2

When the engine is cold, grab ahold of the exhaust pipe that's coming out of the back of the car and give it a good shake. See if that will replicate the sound. A broken or missing support might make it squeak. Could also be a loose heat shield for the exhaust.

Answer 3

Take a quick check of the exhaust system, including muffler, converter, straps and hangers. Make sure nothing is moving around in the trunk.

Answer 4

Your rear struts are probably the culprit.

When they go out, they begin to squeak, and make a rubbing noise, which then turns into a rattle-thud type sound.

Answer 5

hmmm it could be that your muffler is loose. that has happened to me before. all i did was use a clamp to hold it back into place as i didnt want to fork over 200 dollars for a new one. if its not that then it could be your shocks/struts.