1997 Volkswagen Jetta Noise in from front wheel (passenger

VP4543

MEMBER
1997 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
98,000 MILES

I've noticed a buzzing noise which gets louder (and faster) as the car picks up speed which leads me to believe it has something to do with the wheels. The sound seems to be louder in colder temperatures. Any ideas what it could be?

Also, whenever I take the car into an automatic car wash (no touch), my engine stalls and I cannot get the car started for anywhere between 30-60minutes. I also occassionally find it difficult to start the car when it is very moist outside. My first thought was to replace the spark plugs/ wires and distributor cap (which I did), but the car stalled out in a car wash just a month after I had those things changed.

thanks

3 Replies

MASTERTECHTIM

MECHANIC
4,750 POSTS

The noise in the front end. Does it change when turning left to right, if it does it is most likely a wheel bearing

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Sunday, March 2nd, 2008 AT 2:54 PM

MMATT

MEMBER
1 POST

Hi VP:
I have a 97 jetta GLX and I had the same problem as you. You can tell if its a bearing if the noise is affected by when you go into turns.

I had both bearings replaced last year. There is now a different noise coming from somewhere up front but my mechanic seemed to think it was the brake calipers/drums. I just had a complete brake job with new rear drums and it has diminished the noise but it is still noticeable.

Your car wash issue is due to a cracked electric coil. Have it replaced and it will solve your problem. To have it replaced by a private mechanic ran me about $200 - parts/labor.