Hi,
My Crossfire has recently developed an odd noise coming from the rear. It sounds to be coming from the rear axle/suspension area. It is a creaking sound that typically appears when driving slowly (under 35mph). It doesn't seem to matter if I am in gear or if I have the clutch pushed in. It doesn't seem to be caused by going over bumps either. Anyone have a clue what this could be? 2004 Xfire with 45K miles.

Thanks!

 

Does it happen when you turn a certain direction or turn sharply?

 

Thanks for the reply. It occurs both when driving straight or when turning. It is intermittent as well. It will creak for 10 seconds...then stop...then creak for 15 seconds etc.

 

It's your rear hatch.

 

I understand that these cars are built tight and tough and are fairly ridgid, mine creaks also I thought it was the seat. But the hatch sounds more plausible of an explanation.

 

Thanks again for the replies. It is not the hatch...I fixed that rattle a while back. This sound is coming from lower in the rear. I noticed today it seems to occur mostly when slowing down or coasting...not when accelerating.

 

This is a swag, but there are a lot of suspension pieces that pass through rubber supports. Could be friction noise. I've been told never to use WD40 but to use a lube that is compatible with rubber. Check with an auto store. I have used silicone based spray lube.

 

Any updated suggestions here? I've noticed this on mine over the last few weeks. I finally got a chance to get under the rear of the car this morning and everything felt tights. I didn't notice any missing bolts either. I would appreciate any success stories with regard to figuring this mystery out!

Thanks!
AE

 

While driving with the windows closed listen for the noise. If it is happening then turn the heater/ac fan on to the minimum "on" position. See if the noise stops.

I get a faint creaking noise when the cabin is not pressurized and it stops when the fan is turned on. I believe it is the rubber seals in the rear hatch rubbing together slightly.

 

Not when accelorating...........Sounds like the rear. Have you checked the fluid level and its color??? Could be the slop in the rear gear set from what you have said??

Try rolling down a hill out of gear and then roll up the hill out of gear and see if you can get a difference in the tone.

Let us know. Woody

 

Rubber bushing at the lower control arm. I had the same problem last year. Got it this year on the other side.

just my $0.02

/ Troll

 

Yikes, I hope not, I only have 30k miles! What were your symptoms? Mine typically happen under 30 MPH and only when the car changes direction. It's especially prevalent when the car has been sitting at work and I leave to go home. Because of where my car is parked and how I leave the parking lot, I have to immediately make a 90 degree turn when I pull out of my spot. When I make that turn (at like 3 mph), I can hear the creaking. I'll hear it again when I make a turn to merge into traffic about a quarter mile away. Then I never hear it again until the next day. Very weird!

 

It sounds exactly what I had.

 

I'll have to get the dealer guys to check it out. Did you replace the bushing or did you lubricate it?

 

Possibly the parking brake not releasing fully and grinding in the rear disc hat.