1997 Chevrolet Cavalier: grinding or squealing brakes

Filed Oct 28, 2003 · Electrical, Suspension · 78,633 miles · KY

When attempting to start vehicle ignition switch stuck. Recall 02v070000 repairs were performed, but problem still recurred. Also, while driving the bearing hub produced a grinding noise on the left side. The cause has yet to be determined by the mechanic.

Filed Feb 5, 2003 · Brakes · CA

While making a left or right turn there is a grinding noise coming from the left wheel. Please fill in additional information. Dealer is aware of the problem.

Filed Sep 1, 2002 · Brakes · PA

When attempting to stop brakes grab causing the car to jerk several times before stopping. This occurs on both wet and dry pavement. In addition to this, when it rains the car has a delayed reaction with the brakes, often requiring about 10 feet before coming to a complete stop. Brakes are also continuously squeaking/squealing, regardless of whether the brakes are new or worn.

Filed Jul 23, 2002 · Visibility · OH

While driving windshield wipers make a grinding noise, causing wipers to become inoperable.*ak

Filed Dec 26, 2001 · Steering · OR

On 12/2/98 at 26,332 miles I reported a grinding and thud noise when turning. I was told the car was too dangerous to drive because the steering could go out at any time. I was given a loaner car and the rack was replaced under warranty. On 6/29/99 at 34, 556 miles, I again reported the same grinding and thud noise upon turning. Again I was told the car was too dangerous to drive and given a loaner car. Again the rack was replaced under warrenty. On 11/15/00, at 60,152 miles I again reported the exact same grinding and thud noise upon turning. This time however, I was told there was nothing wrong with the car. On 2/15/01 at 64,434 miles I again reported the grinding and thud upon turning and asked that the car be checked. No problem was found so I continued to drive with the grinding and thud noise in the steering since I was told there was nothing wrong even though it was the exact same noise as the prior two times that there was a problem. On 11/21/01, at 81,218 miles, I again reported the grinding and thud noise upon turning, as it was getting worse and continued to make me very uneasy as to the cars safety. This time I was told that yes, now the rack again needed replaced, however I would have to pay for it as it was no longer under warranty.

Filed Apr 6, 2001 · LA

Dash rattles and squeaks. When it rains the inside of car smells sour. Cannot pinpoint the leak.

Filed Aug 20, 2000 · Suspension · TX

When driving on any sort of bumpy road there is a constant 'squeak, rusty sound' in the front suspension. It sounds like a old squeaky bed. Also with backing up a loud long squeak comes from the front end supspension. I've had the front brakes changed and pads replaced twice (due to mechanics negligence). At this same time I complained about the noise and they checked it out and found no problems, but the noise is still there. It's a very annoying sound especially when driving, you think everyone around can hear it and also it sounds as if something is going to fall apart from the front end (?) suspension!

Filed Oct 25, 1999 · Brakes, Electrical · CT

Have had many problems with car - at 20,000 - the dealer replaced the front brakes and machined rotors, after I requested they be checked due to squeaking. Service covered under warranty. At 30,000 - the battery failed on car while parked. Had car towed to dealership and replaced battery. Dealer stated that there was a faulty battery cell. Service covered under warranty. At 40,000 miles, horn has failed. Currently negotiating with dealer to replace without cost. Have always had ABS problems - car will buck and jerk under certain wet pavement conditions when ABS should not activate. Concerned about this - but cannot afford cost of replacing ABS. Dealer has looked at brakes and said nothing about ABS problems. Have banging/clanging noise from right rear of car when car is cold. Unsure what causes this. After reading the consumer complaints and defects on this website, believe that my car has these same defects. Frightened that my car is now incredibly unreliable and may catch fire like other cars listed. Suggestions?

Filed Aug 11, 1999 · Brakes, Engine · IL

When driving at any speed tranmission failed and vehicle stalled. Also, when applying the brakes, they went straight to the floorboard and squeaked. Brake rotors and motor mounts were replaced. Also, fuel pump is going out .

Filed Jun 22, 1999 · Suspension · AL

There is some grinding and knocking noise coming from front end of vehicle. Dealer can't determine the problem.

Filed Nov 19, 1998 · Brakes · MD

The consumer has been experiencing problems with anti-lock brakes. When applying the brakes hears a squeaky sound. The manufacturer has been contacted.

Filed Feb 8, 1998 · Suspension · MO

New rear struts installed and rattle continues. New dash installed and squeak continues. Problem cannot be determined.