MY 2001 Honda civic LX with 135,000 miles has developed a very pronounced low pitched hum in the left [drivers] front side. It begins at 35-40 mph and increases with road speed. It is not related to engine speed. When I've shifted the automatic transmission from drive into neutral and coasted- the sound stays constant. Turning the wheel left or right does not effect sound. However, applying brakes causes sound to stop and come back as soon as I release brake. The transmission shifts fine and the fluid looks good. The sound does not have a metal on metal grinding sound-more like low pitch turbine. Help!
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Hi Wayne, Could be a wheel bearing issue. A technician will be able to diagnose where the noise is coming from on a lift . Good luck.
It sounds like a wheel bearing is on its way out. It could also be a bearing in the transmission. Usually the noise will change when you turn left or right, but not always. Have it checked by a qualified technician.
Have the brakes checked and at the same time your wheel bearings. It is likely to be one of these two.
HI Wayne,
I recommend you go to your shop of choice and have an auto technician go for a ride with you and point out the noise to them. That way you will make sure they understand what you are talking about, and anything that saves the technician time, saves you money.
Wayne,
Inspect your tires for uneven ear patterns, and verify your wheel bearings are not failing.