Alright guys, I drive a 1997 Dodge Stratus. Just got it, it's got high kilometers but it's in good shape and runs pretty good.

I've had a couple problems such as:
A) The alternator just had to be replaced.

B) The car (engine, I notice it on the wheel) vibrates sometimes.

C) Now.. The reason for why I am here, I was just pulling out of my driveway, things seemed 'okay' I hit the street and start driving and I can hear a "chugga chugga chugga" sound, it is like a train pulling off. I drove for a bit like this, not sure what it is, when I am stopped there is no sound.

Help.

 

hard to guess with sounds.... i'm thinking exhaust leak or warped brake rotors/drums.

 

The break pedal was .. I don't know how to explain. It seems it was pumping back.

It may make sense to say it was the breaks, my breaks are worn out.

Second opinions?

 

How bad is the engine moving? I know on higher mileage FWD vehicles the wheel will shake. What I would do rev it up and check the motor. If it moves alot, it might be one of the engine/transmission mounts broken causing the vibration through the pedal too.


Similar thing happened to a friends Focus. It made a noise, but I don't think it sounded like a train taking off.



Hope this helps.

 

Alright, I'm pretty sure it was the front break (break.. pads?).
I went out, did a couple hard breaks, I seemed to locked or pushed it back into place?

I don't know much about vehicles. I'm sorry. :P

 

If you're not sure what you're looking at, take it to a reputable shop. One of your calipers may be hanging up.

 

The hub assembly (wheel bearings) are a high failure rate item on these cars...
These can cause noise , varies with speed , as well as brake pedal pulsation (bumping back)

 

Alright thanks guys.
Hard breaking got rid of it, for now.
I'll take it into a shop so I don't mess anything up by my 'quick fix' solutions.

Here is a picture of Molly. Sorry for the poor pictures.. and the parking light.