My 1998 Millenia is making noise and it is kind of driving me crazy! It is a standard sedan with 110,000 mi.

I have a distinct rattle coming from the rear of the car just when I brake on a bumpy part of the road. It is not apparent when going over rough spots, only when I brake. It sounds like something rolling around in the spare tire well. I took the trunk apart looking for anything loose. I also removed the back seat and looked at everything I could see from there. The rear shocks were replaced 20,000 miles ago. I have replaced the front brakes, but not the rear. I did not remove any wheels, but I examined everything that I could see or touch around the wheels and suspension and found nothing that I could see that would make any noise. Could it possibly be brake pads,etc.? I have had the car for 8 years and want to keep it longer.

Thanks, Al

 

look at your rear brake pads. if they are worn, you might be setting off the wear sensor. basically, it will make a scraping sound when the brakes are applied. this means the pads are about worn out, and you need to change them now.