2000 Dodge Stratus Unknown problem

100,300 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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HELEN BARR
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  • 1 POST
I have had this car to 3 or 4 mechanics because of strange noises when idling at a stop sign. The first time it was a flap-flap-flap like a card on a bike tire. The second time it was a howling noise and the last time, it began a chattering, rattling. All noises stop after a short time--before I start off from the stop. A friend who is an expert mechanic is completely baffled and most garages don't even want to look unless you know what's wrong. I'm afraid to drive it for any distance because I don't want to break down on the road. (I"m a 72 year old grandma.) Can you help or do I have to get a different car? Could it be the water pump? A bearing? The universal joint, whatever that is. It always happens when I'm stopped and engine is idling.
Sep 16, 2010 at 12:55 AM
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MADMIKE1735
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 951 POSTS
if it only does it while your stopped, it maybe a heatshield on your exaust, or something along those lines..... usually the noises that go away when you start driving are easier to find than those that occur while driving.
Sep 24, 2010 at 3:30 PM
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