Hi,

I have a 2009 Dodge Caliber (2.0L V6 Auto) with 93,000 miles on it. Earlier this week, the car began making this rattling noise on the passenger side of the engine. It's been coming and going, sometimes theres no noise, other times it can be very loud and obnoxious. I've seen that quite a few of these cars have problems with the alternators that sound similar to this, but a few friends of mine that are mechanics have heard it and thought it could be the motor. Well, when I came home this morning from a quick run to Dunkins, it was being especially obnoxious, so I popped open the hood and recorded it. Maybe someone can give me some advice towards it?

BTW, I recently (last week) switched it over to synthetic oil. Could that have caused it? (I'm not too smart with these cars- I can change the oil and thats about it)

I have a video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33zpz...ature=youtu.be

Thanks,

Ben

 

It is easy to isolate the motor from the alternator. Simply remove the belt and run the engine. If noise is gone, you probably going to need an alternator.
If noise still there... then say you prayer...

 

Video kept giving me an unable to view error.

 

I have EXACTLY the same noise coming from mine!! We drove down to Minneapolis from Winnipeg, the noise is not there when on the highway, but really is noticeable at idle.

Wondering if this could be the Idler pulley on the alternator??

Cheers
Scooter214ST

 

I don't know if the problem is the pulley on the alternator, but it definitely is something in the alternator. I replaced mine and the car sounds better than ever. Bought an alternator with the pulley already on it at a junk yard for $50.

 

Scooter,

If you're having problems pin-pointing the problem with your vehicle, you may want to inquire with a Dodge dealer. They have to most up to date diagnostic equipment, to help repair your Caliber.

You can check out the link I posted below to locate your closest Dodge dealer.

http://www.dodge.ca/en/LocateRetailer/?caliber

If you need any addition assistance or have any other questions feels free to PM me.

 

It is probably the decoupler pulley on the alternator.

 

Mine did the same thing 2x now, alternator was the problem

 

Welcome to the forum.

What year is your Caliber and how many miles are on it now?