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08 OB Rattle (Front Right) > Not sure if it is mechanical

2 messages,  Last post on Apr 30, 2010 at 8:59 AM

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#1 of 2 08 OB Rattle (Front Right) > Not sure if it is mechanical by parent1

Apr 30, 2010 (7:37 am)

Greetings,
 
In searching the forum, it seems that Subaru's – like all other makes – have their share of rattles. However, the rattle I'm getting is not characteristic of others' descriptions of their rattles. Ultimately, I’m hoping that it is not mechanical, but am unknowledgeable when it comes to these things.
 
I know this is a weird description, but the rattle sounds like the “rattle” you get from a compressor clanging around while moving a window unit AC. The rattle becomes noticeable around 35 - 40 mph. The pattern is random: that is, it does not coincide with bumpy roads (the rattle occurs on smooth roads as well), it doesn’t seem to be related to accelerating/decelerating, and it is not triggered by turning or braking. Everything else about the car drives and sounds normal.
 
The only thing I can think of is that the mechanic didn’t tighten everything properly after my recent oil change (the rattle developed 4 days and 350 miles later). I looked under the hood, but didn’t notice anything obvious; is there something I should look for? And ultimately, does my rattle sound symptomatic of a mechanical problem… or just something loose?
 
Thanks for the help. The Best,
Chad

#2 of 2 Re: 08 OB Rattle (Front Right) > Not sure if it is mechanical [parent1] by ateixeira

Apr 30, 2010 (8:59 am)

Replying to: parent1 (Apr 30, 2010 7:37 am)
I have a window AC unit and I know that sound. I think the compressor shakes and you hear a solid metal-to-metal low-pitched rattle.
 
Usually I'd say it's an exhaust heat shield but those tend to be high-pitched.
 
Could be worn out rubber bushings. Whatever those were isolating would make that sound. Check the sway bars, those are easy to see and access.

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