Questions and Answers
Subaru Makes Loud Wrenching Noise
Q. Hi Vince, here's my question: My 1992 Subaru makes a loud wrenching noise that appears to be coming from the front part of the car. It only happens when the car is at a stop and is then accelerated while turning left or right. If I steer straight ahead (from a stop), there is no noise. If I turn left or right (from a stop) very very slowly, there is no noise.
The noise only occurs while turning left or right from a stop and when the car is accelerating at a fairly typical rate (as in a 25 mph zone). And it seems to be getting worse. When I took it to AAMCO about two years ago they couldn't fix the problem, but they did replace both front shafts.
I also took it to my favorite mechanic, and he couldn't figure it out either. I have yet to take it to a Subaru dealer as that is not convenient. Other than this noise, the car runs great. But I'm afraid something is going to snap! I've gone underneath the car with a light but don't see anything suspicious. Where should I look? Any ideas?
Thank you,
DaveA. I can't be 100% sure, but what you describe sounds like a bad strut mount. The strut mount has a bearing inside it that freezes up after a while. When it freezes, it can't spin so it turns inside the mount causing a "wrenching" type noise.
You may be able to feel it if you place your hand on top of the strut mount while someone turns the wheel.
