Questions and Answers

Subaru Impreza Left Turn Noise Q. Hi Vincent, I have a 1996 Subaru Impreza LX Wagon, manual transmission, full time AWD, approximately 85,000 miles. About two months ago I had an 83,500 mile check-up at the dealer. Since then I have noticed a noise that sounds like air being slowly let out of a balloon with a bit of a rub to it when I am turning left.

I originally noticed it when leaving the parking garage at work where you need to turn left frequently when exiting from higher levels. If I stopped the car and proceed straight it went away. It doesn't happen every time I turn left, and recently there have been times when it persisted despite stopping, etc.

Obviously, my question is what could it be. After reading some of your Q&A's I am thinking bad right front wheel bearing, but I am hoping that it might just be some minor adjustment needed that might be related to the rotating of the tires at my last vehicle service. Could it be related to anything else done during that visit?

As an aside, about a year ago I went in for service and they found that I had a bad (I think front right?) CV boot joint and they had to replace the whole rack. I was told that this is not a common problem with Subaru's. Fortunately, it was under extended warranty at that time!

Also, if it is a bad wheel bearing should that be happening at this mileage level? I have an appointment at the dealer for next Tuesday. I appreciate your feedback!

Thanks,
Sandy

A. It sure does sound like the start of a bad wheel bearing to me. Of course the whole steering and suspension should be carefully checked, but I think it will turn out to be the wheel bearing.