Strange intermittent vibration / buzzing from front when in drive




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https://www.pepboys.com/spark-plugs/...%205.5L%20SOHC
RockAuto is clearly a better deal.
Haven't been able to find a match for my particular situation in the forums. I have an '08 S550 4MATIC, 180,000kms.
There's a strange vibration / buzzing noise coming from the front of the car that's especially noticeable when I drive slow, seems to be from the left side. Vibration can be felt in the steering wheel.
Doesn't matter the position of the steering wheel and it only happens when the car is moving (forward or reverse). As soon as I stop, it stops. Car can be cold or warm.
It's there when braking, or if the car is coasting in neutral. Sometimes there's a weird click and then it stops for a few seconds.
I've taken off both front wheels to see if there's something dragging on the wheels & brakes but everything looks fine. Pads were replaced in the last year. CV boots are all in good shape.
I thought maybe steering related, but there's no noise when rotating the steering wheel when stopped (I topped up power steering fluid anyway, no dice). Steering wheel feels normal, doesn't pull.
Wheel bearings? But then why would it sound fine 20% of the time?
Scratching my head. Any thoughts?
JR
Last edited by johnnyrocket52; Nov 4, 2023 at 12:46 PM.




The second time I tried to take it to the mechanic, it again stopped making the noise, and I haven't been able to get it to make the noise since.
They figured it could be a vacuum pump, but if so, it should get worse, not go away.
All I can do is guess what it was, my money is on something with the ABS making it rapid fire engage / disengage.
I have a video of it making the noise, but can't find a way to upload it.
Anyway, thank you everyone for your suggestions and help.
I even thought it was a flat on left side.
Just wondering if u figured it out? Its not an engine mount because most if the time car drives perfect. Its either my stabilizer rods worn & air shocks are over compensating? Or an abs issue? Any advice?
I even thought it was a flat on left side.
Just wondering if u figured it out? Its not an engine mount because most if the time car drives perfect. Its either my stabilizer rods worn & air shocks are over compensating? Or an abs issue? Any advice?



