Engine growling noise?

2013 SUBARU IMPREZA
104,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JAKIVANISH
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The car makes a growling noise. It's not constant but on and off. Sometimes, on acceleration, but also at other times. It's difficult to find a pattern. The noise is not related to the muffler heat shield, which we've checked. It sounds more like it is coming from the engine.

Other symptoms: the car does not have the same quick acceleration it had when it was new, but then, nor do I:(.
Jul 4, 2024 at 1:47 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I understand. I don't move as well either. LOL Anyway, is it possible for you to record the sound and upload it for me to hear? Also, have you checked things like the brakes, wheel bearings, CV axles, and so on?

I know at 100K, the timing belt should be replaced and at the same time, the water pump. Let me know as much as possible. Also, when you hear the noise, do things like press the brake and make side to side turns to see if anything like that changes the sound.

Let me know and happy 4th!

Joe
Jul 4, 2024 at 8:33 PM
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JAKIVANISH
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Thanks for your reply, Joe.
I will record the noise and upload it in the next couple of days. Re. the other factors:
Brakes: the noise does not coincide with using the brakes.
Wheel bearings: these were checked recently and one set was replaced.
CV Axle: this has not been checked
Timing Belt: pretty sure this model does not have a timing belt
I will try using the brakes and moving from side to side when the noise occurs.
Will let you know.
Thanks,
Vikash
Jul 6, 2024 at 6:04 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Sounds like a plan. Let me know what I can do to help.

Take care,

joe
Jul 6, 2024 at 9:55 PM
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JAKIVANISH
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Getting a decent quality recording was difficult. But in the meantime, my mechanic diagnosed the issue as the muffler hitting the tow hitch and did something to fix it.
Thanks for your guidance.
Cheers, Vikash
Jul 23, 2024 at 2:07 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Thanks for the update. I'm glad that was an easy one for you. LOL Honestly, vehicles can drive us nuts (no pun intended).

Regardless, take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe
Jul 23, 2024 at 7:44 PM