noises and economy loss

2001 OPEL CORSA
53,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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ZANE SCOTT
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Hi, I have a constant whirring noise on my car that gets louder the faster I go whether I am in gear or free-wheeling. Also now and then I get a sudden clank noise like I have run over a metal plate in the road! I think I am losing up to 1/3 of my fuel economy because of this. What could be the cause (wheel bearings, other)?
Jun 30, 2016 at 8:37 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
A bad wheel bearing will change sounds when turning left to right because the weigh distribution changes. For example, if it gets louder when turning right, the left wheel bearing is the problem because it is receiving more weight at that point. Also, pay attention to see if the noise changes when you apply the brakes. If it does, suspect that the brake pads are worn and in need of replacement.
Jun 30, 2016 at 7:50 PM
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ZANE SCOTT
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Hi, thanks for your feedback. The noise does not seem to get any louder when turning. However, another problem I am having is the engine cutting out when I go down an incline and then stop by taking the car out of gear and free wheeling and then braking. it only seems to happen after stopping after an incline? Took the car in to a shop and they said it was the cam timing, but car still does it? Have a suspicion all these problems are a symptom of the same thing maybe.
Jun 30, 2016 at 10:51 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
That's odd. Is there any noise with the engine running but the car not moving?
Jul 4, 2016 at 8:52 PM
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