So, I motored up to NY to visit the boyfriend and I'm in the process of loading him into my car--to prove, antagonistically, that my car is better than his --and when I yank it into reverse and commence back up I hear this loud *thunk* from the rear of the car. He points out that it sounds as though my car is falling apart and I laugh nervously. Has anyone else had this problem? It seems like I've escaped all the other annoying rattles and if this is just another one of those then I really can't complain but I'm worried that it's not normal--as loud *thunks* seldom are. It's happened a few times since then, possibly 3 times in the past 3 days, and it's always in reverse--though it doesn't happen EVERY time I back up.

I'm befuddled. Any suggestions?

~Kelley

 

Your boyfriend is right. That clunk is pieces of the transmission falling off.

Nah, you may be hearing the ABS brake system perform a self test. Do you also hear another thunk when you drive forward and reach ~10-15 MPH?

See ya,
JS

 

Come to think of it.... I have heard the noise going forward--though it doesn't seem as loud , possibly die to greater engine noise with higher RPMs? And I can't be 100% certain that it happens going forward immediately proceeding or preceding the thunk when going backward. I'd like to think it's a self test--that's innocuous enough. Hm... had no idea they even did that.

So much I don't know about cars--I try, though! Thanks for the insight!

~Kelley :smile:

 

If it is the ABS brake test, it shouldn't clunk twice. The next time it clunks in reverse, pay special attention and listen for a clunk going forward. If you hear another clunk, I'd take it to the dealer to be checked out.

The ABS should perform a self-test each time you crank the car and pull away.

I don't yet own my MCS, so I have no idea if the ABS tests in reverse or if it sounds louder in reverse...shouldn't, really, unless like you say, it's due to reduced engine rev noise.

I'm sure others will chime in.

Good luck,
JS
P.S. If your boyfriend gives you too much trouble, tell him a VERY nice man is helping you.

 

My Passat does the same thing, every day, at the same spot, while backing out of the driveway. Never any time else.

Bill