2002 Mazda Millenia Rear Rubbing Noise

2002 MAZDA MILLENIA
105,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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RCUSHMAN
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I have a Mazda Millenia S model. About 12 months ago I started hearing a rubbing noise from the right rear of my car. I hear it a low speeds as I'm driving around the parking lot looking for a parking space, or as I'm slowly pulling out into traffic. The noise is not constant and I don't hear it when I'm driving on the main highway. The noise becomes louder if I have one or more people in the car with me. The loudest I heard it was when I had three other ladies in my car. Everyone, espeically the two in the back seat began to wonder if we were going to break down. I've taken it in to the Mazda dealer three times. Each time they say they can't hear anything. I've had the breaks, tires, and axle checked. What could it be?
Mar 17, 2009 at 2:23 PM
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MERLIN2021
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I have seen a problem like this with plastic wheel covers, the spring clip inside weakens and allows it to move up and down slightly, try removing the wheel cover and taking a test drive.
Mar 17, 2009 at 2:49 PM
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RCUSHMAN
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The Mazda dealership mechanic says that he can't even hear the noise. The noise isn't constant... Do you still think that it's a wheel cover?
Mar 17, 2009 at 3:21 PM
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MERLIN2021
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If it is a plastic cover and not an aluminum rim it could be...
Mar 17, 2009 at 3:35 PM
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RCUSHMAN
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I have 18" al wheels... no plastic cover. Ruth
Mar 18, 2009 at 11:51 AM
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MERLIN2021
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That rules out the hub cap thereoy...was ANY work done around the time the problems began?
Mar 19, 2009 at 7:28 AM
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RCUSHMAN
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No work was done prior or around the time the rubbing began. I did take the car in when the noise started. They told me they replaced a bearing but the noise continued when I picked it up. I've asked the service manager to drive it home because they still say they can't hear the noise.
Mar 19, 2009 at 7:35 AM
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MERLIN2021
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You did say the noise is more prevalent with extra passengers, so have them put some wieght in the trunk and drive it...
Mar 19, 2009 at 7:59 AM