Hi,
I have a 97 Camry, 4 cylinder, 112K miles. Recently while driving I heard a strage popping type noise. I thought a tire blew, but it didn't. Actually it sounded kind of like metal, if that makes any sense. Shortly thereafter, I started to hear a very loud creaking noise coming from the same area (left rear) while accelerating and decelerating at lower speeds, as well as when going over bumps or dips or making tight turns.
I took it to the dealership and they said I needed new struts and mounts, so I paid for that ($1K!). After completing the work, they said I should have the brakes done too, but they were ok for now. The obnoxious noise ceased for about 2 days, then reappeared in full force. It lasted for about 2 days, then disappeared again. For several weeks all I heard was some general noises while braking here and there so I thought maybe the obnoxious creaking noise had been taken care of. WRONG! Yesterday it came back and it's as bad as ever! I took it to the dealership again today and they said that the strut work is fine, I'm hearing my front brakes (which currently have after market pads.) I have a lot of trouble swallowing this for the following reasons:
- Why would I hear loud creaking in the left rear due to ANY issue with the front brakes?
- Despite the after market pads, which have always sqeaked a little, why would I hear any brake problems when I'm not using the brakes at all?
- Why did I pay K for struts when at this point in time there is no noticeable difference between my car now and prior to the strut & mount work? I didn't drop a thousand dollars to listen to the same maddening noise!!
If you have any thoughts at all on this PLEASE let me know. I really feel like I've been taken advantage of!
Thanks :) Cara