SilverSchwinn

Seems to only happen at really low speeds (5-10 mph) and not necessarily when going over bumps/potholes etc.) Definately happening in first gear, and maybe in second too. Haven't heard it at higher speeds because of wind/road noise, so I'm not sure if it's happening all the time or not.

I searched around a bit and saw that other were having a similar issue a while back and that it was potentially coming from something lose in the brakes or rear suspension. I didn't see anything affirmative on a cause/fix though, but noted that Audi seemed to be having trouble locating and actually addressing the problem. Brake problems sound like they were the result of a recent install/upgrade, but mine are stock as far as I know. Wondering if anyone had this issue and what the problem/solution was? Or any thoughts on what it might be/how to diagnose it?

2003 A4 3.0QM with 48k miles<ul><li><a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4gen2/msgs/530651.phtml">Post on rear suspension - seems similar</a></li></ul>

MC Hammered

If you look at this pic you will see the 2 cross connecting arms connected together by a bolt

<img src="http://members.shaw.ca/mchammered/audi%20pics/new%20exhaust/IMG_3730.JPG">

Well the right hand piece broke off where it was welded from the pipe and I would hear a rattling sound when I start moving from the contact it was making with the exhaust.

Only when I took to my bodyshop did the guy who works on my car pick this out. He TIG welded the piece back on to where it was supposed to be and the noise went away.

OldManTan

That was going to be my guess.

SilverSchwinn

Thanks guys - I'll have a look under there tomorrow and see what I can see

SilverSchwinn

If it is a broken exhaust part...would they cover that under warranty or am I on my own?

MC Hammered

If it is an OEM exhaust they can fix it, if not any exhaust shop can fix it.

SilverSchwinn

Poked around underneath and gave everything a good shake/inspection. Nothing looked out of place and there were no issues with the cross members you mentioned.

Since I didn't have anyone around, I gave the car a few pushes and hopped out to see if I could see/hear anything. I didn't want to get it going to fast (cause I still need to hop in and hit the brakes), but I couldn't replicate the problem at those speeds (a quick walking pace, probably less than 5 mph). I drove back and forth a few times at closer to to 10 mph and could hear it in both reverse and 1st. It's definately coming from the rear! Thinking maybe something in the brakes?

Only have the OEM emergency jack so I didn't feel safe putting it up and trying to shake it around or crawl underneath it. Need to search more for the brake issues...

OldManTan

Is there a splash guard on the rear brakes?