Who can guess this noise?

[tcbonline]

Hi all, I'm hoping you guys can help me figure this one out. I'll try to explain it the best I can. I have a '97 4runner, 2 wheel drive.

When I am backing up, I hear a squeaking noise that is rather prominent. The best I can explain it is that it's sort of a cyclical noise which increases in frequency as the vehicle speed increases. It happens even when I'm not applying any brakes. Unfortunately, I can't really tell if the noise is coming from the front of the car or rear.

Interestingly, the noise does not happen at all when the car is going forward.

Any guesses?

 

[BTLFED]

Have you checked your brakes? Sometimes if they are low the metal wear bar can get cocked or bent a little and cause it. I work at an Infiniti dealership and it happens on FX's all the time and the cause is always either that or crappy aftermarket pads.

I've never had that issue with my Runner though so someone may have some more insight on the subject.

 

[004Gunner]

I agree that the best guess is the brakes. The backing plates are frequent culprits because they are easily bent.

 

[tcbonline]

Thanks guys...sounds like I need to get my brakes checked out. Ugh. And I just got over forking over a lot of dough on replacing the water pump! Joys of owning an older car I guess. Anyway, thanks for the tips.

 

[XJeepguy]

Have you checked your U-Joints ?