What Causes the Abnormal Noise from the Left Front Wheel of the Santana Vista?
3 Answers
If the engine noise is uniform, it is considered normal. If the noise is uneven, it is necessary to conduct a station inspection to determine the problem. Abnormal Car Noises: It is difficult for average car owners to distinguish between abnormal noises caused by faults and those that are reasonable. Among vehicles taken to repair shops for abnormal noise inspections, only about 20% actually have problems. Models equipped with turbocharged engines will naturally have different sounds compared to naturally aspirated engines; vehicles with engine guards installed may also produce noises due to friction; some car owners, after coming into contact with different vehicles, may mistake reasonable noises for vehicle faults due to their lack of mechanical knowledge. Causes of Abnormal Noises: Under normal circumstances, using the brakes will generate friction and produce noise. If the noise when using the brakes is irregular, it is necessary to check whether the brake's wear surface is normal.
I drive frequently, and it's quite common for the Zhijun model to experience abnormal noises from the left front wheel. The most common issue is with the braking system—squeaking sounds occur when the brake pads are worn out or if small stones are stuck in the brake disc. Suspension system problems could also be the culprit, such as leaking shock absorbers causing a thumping sound over bumps, or loose ball joints in the lower control arms producing a clunking noise when turning. For the tires, check if there are any stones or nails stuck in them. A faulty wheel hub bearing will produce a humming sound that gets louder as you drive faster. It's best to first observe how the noise changes under different conditions: when braking, turning, or going over speed bumps. If you can't figure it out, take it to a repair shop to have it lifted and inspected. Failing to replace worn suspension components like ball joints in time can affect handling.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I've encountered wheel noise issues several times. If the left front wheel of a Volkswagen Santana makes noise, a warped brake disc can cause body vibration and noise during braking, especially after rainy days when rust is more likely. A seized brake caliper can also cause the wheel to overheat and produce friction sounds. Additionally, it's crucial to check if the wheel hub nuts are loose—this is very dangerous. Uneven tire wear or a deformed wheel hub can produce rhythmic clicking sounds. I recommend walking around the car and giving the tires a kick to check for looseness before driving. If the noise only occurs at specific speeds, such as above 60 km/h, it's likely a bearing issue and should be repaired immediately.
