cyberpmg

Well, the unusually cold, wet weather appears to have subsided from NE Ohio. I'm now enjoying drives with the windows down and the sunroof open. Can't beat fresh air and the wind on a sunny day!

With the windows open, I've now noticed some strange noises that are new to me. I can't hear them with the windows closed (excellent interior insulation!).

First, I've noticed that the front brakes seem to lightly squeak when stopping from a slow speed (less than 25mph). Also, when at slow speeds, I'm hearing a slight whining sound from the front wheels that makes the car sound more like a wind-up toy. Last, on some rough street surfaces, the front suspension likes to "chirp" when absorbing the road variations (pot hole fills, cracks, rail road crossings, etc.).

Are any of these things normal? Again, when the windows are closed, I don't hear any of this. I've driven my A4 over 15,000 miles with solid performance. Even the gas mileage has been holding nicely around 24mpg in mixed driving.

So, is this considered "normal"? Would appreciate any info/insight. Thanks!

woofpup

They all sound fairly "normal" though the suspension chirp depends how loud it is

ex-quattro PETE

I've been told it's loose brake-pads. Try going over the same road cracks with your foot slighty on the brakes and see if the "chirps" go away.

Another possibility is that parts of your suspension need to be lubricated, like control arm bushings.

I have not found out what causes the "chirps" in my case.

kidfrostnj

Is it worth having them fix the loose brake pads? Mine has the exact same chirp...

ex-quattro PETE

getting them to acknowledge that there is a problem that needs fixing is a separate issue though. I've heard that applying some brake-squeal substance will take care of it.

I'll tell my dealer to check it out next time I go in for service.