2000 Toyota Avalon - rubbing/growling noise near tire when turning in parking garage?

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- horseridingirl
  
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posted
17 years ago

Sat, Dec 23, 2006 12:33 AM

I just bought a used Toyota Avalon with 84,000 miles on it this week. While making the sharp left-hand turns up into the multi-level parking garage today, I noticed a growling or rubbing sound coming from the right hand front tire area. Does anyone have an idea on what this could be?

My Dad said it could be the power steering fluid but I turned the wheel sharply to each side at a stop and didn't hear any noise. I'm getting the tires replaced next week. I may have it looked at sooner though if necessary.

Thanks!

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- Hachiroku
  
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posted
17 years ago

Sat, Dec 23, 2006 2:21 AM

I don't think there's anything wrong with your car, I think it has more to do with the rubber compound in your tires and the flooring surface of the garage.

I have noticed this in some parking garages, also.

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- Ray O
  
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posted
17 years ago

Sat, Dec 23, 2006 5:52 AM

Noises are difficult, if not impossible, to diagnose without actually hearing them.

Tires sometimes make strange noises on smooth surfaces like freshly coated roads and parking garages.

Make sure that the power steering fluid is up the proper level on the PS fluid reservoir. If it needs topping off, use the correct fluid, probably Dexron III.

With the engine shut off, check the tension on the belt that drives the PS pump and make sure that the belt is not glazed or deteriorating on the underside. You should not be able to depress the belt more than about an inch at the widest point between pulleys.

If there are aftermarket wheels or oversize tires installed, the wheel or tire may be rubbing on the inner fender liner.