The front of the car makes a howling or whining noise

2002 MERCURY COUGAR

75,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

STEFANLOBNITZ

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The front of the car makes a howling or whining noise like the axle is binding and it goes away when you turn to the right so I wanted to know if there is a easy fix for that or what u think is wrong and how can I check the axle gear oil if it has any iv never worked on a front wheel drive only rear wheel or four wheel drive but I can't figure out how to tell if it is maybe low on gear oil it's very complex under there please help

Feb 9, 2014 at 3:35 PM

SQM

CERTIFIED EXPERT
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Howling noises are typically from wheel bearings or tires.
Worn wheel bearing can make howling noise as you drive and can go away when turning if that turn unloads that side wheel.

Take a look at this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-howling-noise

Check the tire for any flat spots or unusual wear.
You can do a simple test to see if it the wheel bearing. Put the vehicle on jack stands, and spin the wheel, usually you will hear noise when it spins.

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Oct 17, 2021 at 6:26 PM