I have an '07 HHR with 64k miles, a 2.4L, and an automatic trans. This last week there has been a noise coming from the front end. It sounds like mud tires running on asphalt. My tires are new, <5k miles. I put the car on jack stands and the sound is still there. It is not brake related as there is not a change in the sound when brakes are applied. The sound is only present when the car is running.

I have seen this problem from a post a couple of years ago but there was not solution presented.

Please help if you know what is happening.

SL

 

Have you checked for excessive end-play in the hubs ?

'sounds' like a possible wheel bearing.

 

Have you checked the Constant Velocity (CV) Joint boots for cracks and tears? If dirt gets in the joints, it makes them noisy.
Another thing it could be is the bottom of the torque convertor cover rubbing on the flywheel or side of the torque convertor.

Clare

 

Sounds like the same situation with mine. '08 2.4L w/ auto trans @ 64k miles. Does sound like mud tires on asphalt. My Jeep makes that noise but slightly louder.

 

CV boots were good shape and I didn't notice any end play when I had the tires off. I will check the cover this weekend.

 

I took it in to the dealer and they found a bad wheel bearing hub. It is covered under the 100k powertrain warranty. Good news for me.

 

Cool..

To accurately check wheel hubs requires a magnetic base dial indicator, end-play should be not more than .002...