Hey everyone… I got this 2011 Corolla a little while ago with 155k miles. It’s mostly in good shape, but there are a few things bugging me that I haven’t been able to explain clearly to the mechanics.
There’s a faint chirping sound when I’m going slow (like 20-30mph) and coasting. As soon as I let off the gas, I can hear it if the fan and music are off. Nothing at idle. I thought it might be the belt or pulleys, but wouldn’t that make noise even when idling?
There’s also a low rumble or thud from the right (passenger) side when I hit potholes or bumps. Feels like suspension to me… maybe control arm bushings? Could be something else too, not sure.
Found some oil around the back right of the engine, near the timing chain tensioner. I’ve read that’s kind of expected with this mileage, but the mechanic I went to straight away said it’s the crank seal and gave me a $700 estimate. Seems a bit too much. I’ve driven about 500-600 miles and the oil level hasn’t moved at all. Just wondering if that’s really something I need to fix now.
Any ideas or suggestions? Would really appreciate it.
That chirping sound could be lots of things. I’ve heard it before but still not sure what causes it. Could be pulleys or brakes maybe.
Yeah I agree with you. Most people replace the whole control arm when it starts doing that and it usually fixes it. But it might also be loose engine mounts that make the engine move more when hitting bumps.
The leak near the timing tensioner might actually be from the timing cover where it meets the head gasket. That’s pretty normal for Corollas from what I’ve seen. If it’s just a bit of seepage, I’d keep checking the oil level and not worry unless it gets worse. If it was serious, you’d notice puddles under the car.
That’s the thing… I’ve been trying to get someone to take it seriously but all the repair shops around here just brush it off and say it’s “normal.” It won’t be normal when it causes real damage.
I’m gonna replace the control arm soon anyway. Feels like the easiest one to deal with out of the three.
Appreciate the reply. I’ve posted this stuff on other forums too but didn’t really get any useful answers. Was hoping this forum might be different.
@Piper
Yeah, sometimes those small sounds are pulley bearings, fan bearings, maybe something stuck near the brakes, or a worn wheel bearing just starting to go. Creaks or clunks usually point to engine mounts or suspension stuff. If it’s a serious issue, the sound would usually be loud and obvious. If it’s soft and hard to notice, chances are it’s not going to suddenly cause danger. Some wear just happens with time.
@FrankRich2
Yeah that lines up with what I was thinking. I’ll go to the shop and ask them to look at the belts, pulleys, brake pads and wheel bearings. The lower control arm is already on the list so maybe they can check the bearings while they’re in there.
@Piper
Good idea. Usually when a shop sees the mileage on your car, they already know what parts might be getting old. Just make sure they’re honest and not trying to scare you into replacing stuff that’s still okay. Some just show you a dirty or rusty part and act like it’s falling apart.