Creaking / Rattling Front End
 

Greetings -


2008 W204, creaking / rattling noise coming from front end. Only happens when speed is 30-35mph and less. I was able to record the sound, but I am unable to attach the file due to file size. Virtually unable to attach the file as Pelican only allows very small files. The sound was recorded while the car was going straight. Sound doesn't really happen while turning. Any input as to where this may be coming from would be greatly appreciated!

I am assuming I could email someone the sound file.... - Erik

First of all, sending audio over the internet for a noise diagnosis is usually fruitless. We can guess all day until the car is lifted up and inspected. On that body, you have several control arms on each side that have ball joints on the ends that end up with slight movement when worn. If they're bad, it'll be pretty obvious when inspected. I can't say for sure, but we replace these quite often on the 203s and 204s at my shop.

Creaking is one thing, but rattling is another. Are you thinking they are from the same source? You could spray some areas one at a time with WD-40 and when the creaking stops you found the source. As far as rattling, I think that is a little more unusual. I would think that might be found by inspection.