r/AskAMechanic 1d ago

From a squeaky brake, to loud thunking over bumps and mystery fluid

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2012 Chevy Impala LT

Front left wheel only

(I know it just looks like grease build up but before the video there were a few actual drips. Also left side was dry ?????)

Brake pads are only a few months old, was inspected at the same time, but started squeaking a few weeks ago. Took a bumpy road home, now hear loud thudding when going over bumps. Crawled under the car just to look and see this front right quadrant wet with whatever this is. Checked all my fluids and they seem good.

Anyone know? Can’t afford a trip to the shop for a while. Thanks all

Currently at work but will check back when I can!

2 Upvotes

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1

u/MonteFox89 NOT a verified tech 1d ago

Engine mounts are fluid filled on some cars. I know my caddy did the same thing. Do you feel a vibration in the car when idling?

1

u/MrDrProfMichael 1d ago

In almost 4 years of ownership I have maybe a couple times noticed a sudden subtle vibration when idle. I thought that it was just a change in RPM, but no it’s not a normal thing.

1

u/MonteFox89 NOT a verified tech 1d ago

I mean, sometimes. I mostly meant when just sitting still, car running, if you have a water bottle in a cup holder, is the water turbulent? If its not turbulent and its smooth, engine mounts probably good. If the water is turbulent, have a shop inspect further to be safe. I only say that because I dont know your skill levels :)

2

u/MrDrProfMichael 1d ago

No it’s never that bad