What Causes the Abnormal Noise in Passat?
4 Answers
If there is abnormal noise during gear shifting at low speeds and the sound is relatively minor, it could be due to internal components of the transmission wearing out and producing noise during operation. Worn Transmission Bearings: Transmission bearings often operate under high-speed, heavy-load conditions and endure significant alternating loads. As a result, the rolling balls or cylindrical rollers and raceways of the bearings may experience wear, spots, fatigue spalling, or burning, leading to increased axial and radial clearances, which can cause impact noise. Worn Meshing Gears: During gear meshing and transmission, sliding friction occurs from the tooth tip to the tooth root, making wear inevitable. Due to gear wear, the meshing clearance increases, causing impact noise during vehicle operation, such as when starting or shifting gears.
Last week, while driving my Passat to work, I heard a creaking sound from under the car when turning, which was quite alarming. Upon inspection, I found that the rubber boot on the shock absorber had aged, causing metal parts to rub against each other and produce the noise during daily bumps. Shock absorbers are responsible for cushioning road vibrations, and when they age, they can make the entire car unstable, especially when going over speed bumps or potholes. I recommend not delaying and taking the car to a repair shop where a mechanic can use a jack to lift the vehicle and check for loose or rusty suspension components. Safety comes first—small issues like this can worsen over time and affect overall handling performance. Pay attention to the source of the sound while driving and note the frequency and circumstances, as this can help the mechanic diagnose the problem more quickly.
The Passat abnormal noise issue is encountered by many owners, with common causes including loose ball joints in the suspension system or worn brake pads. My car used to make a screeching sound when decelerating, which turned out to be caused by rust stains scraping on the brake discs. During daily driving, bumpy roads or sharp turns can easily loosen chassis components, producing metallic collision-like sounds. If the noise comes from the interior, it might be loose seat buckles or poorly fitted door panels rattling. It's recommended to have professional technicians inspect these areas with a lift during regular maintenance to prevent worsening. Don't skimp on inspection fees—early intervention can prevent bigger hazards, as abnormal noises often signal minor issues warning of body aging.
My Passat once made a ticking noise from underneath while driving on the highway, and it turned out to be a wheel bearing issue. The bearing is responsible for supporting rotation, and when worn, friction noises become noticeable. Pay attention to whether the sound increases during acceleration or steering while driving normally, as this can help preliminarily identify the problematic area. It's crucial to get it diagnosed at a professional shop promptly—safety should never be overlooked. Long-term neglect could lead to wheel instability and affect balance. When parking, you can shake the tires by hand to listen for noises, which might save you some trouble.
