Rattling noise from front/middle of car
 

I have an 87 944 auto that's been making some odd rattling noises.

It started near the end of summer and when I came back home for fall break I've found that it has gotten a bit worse. It doesn't seem to be coming from the engine itself but somewhere in the engine bay. It's kinda hard to locate (as are most problems in a 944). It only makes the rattling noise when in gear but the noise mostly goes away once I get above 5 mph or so. The motor mounts were replaced a few years ago so I doubt it is that. Could be a heat shield as well I suppose. The odd thing is that occasionally the power cuts out for just a moment when the rattling increases a lot. If anyone has had a similar issue or has any clue what it might be, I'd greatly appreciate the help.

Check out the front brake disc shields. I had a similar noise on my 997.1RS, and it drove the mechanics nuts trying to locate the source.

Check oil level sensor heat shield. I welded mine up and one of the noises went away.

I am about to replace the flex plate on an 87 924S. at this point there is no doubt about the problem.

if it makes the noise when in gear and sitting still, you can get your car up on a lift use a stethoscope to isolate the source.

Awesome suggestions. I'll check to see if it's any of those issues.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1571845514.PNG
My power robbing rattle was the cat.

Hi all I've recently noticed a rattle noise during start up, and I'm not sure, but I'm thinking it might be the passenger side strut and housing. I noticed a difference when I replaced my motor mounts and the rubber and cone on the passenger side looked different from the drivers side. I'm waiting on some parts before I start tearing it apart. Anyone else have this happen? Thanks...

N-ply
my comment was based on the rattle only happening when in gear.

when your car is in neutral, the drive shaft is still spinning inside the torque tube.

on my 928 I will be pulling my torque tube and replacing the carrier bearings shortly. it makes a rattling sound at idle in gear or in neutral. and goes away once I start moving. so your issue could be the torque tube carrier bearings.

but get it up and check different spots with a stethoscope to pin it down. if it is either of these issues they are not quick, easy jobs.

good luck