OK, guys, I need some help here. My 2006 Mazda 3 (2.3 engine) has been producing some new “ticking/clacking” sounds. They seem to be coming from underneath the car (nope, no critters there), seem to last for only the first 1/4 mile, seem to let up after I apply the brakes a time or two. The also increase in frequency as the car speeds up, making me suspect something wheel-related. Naturally, when I dropped it off at the garage, the techs could not replicate the sound. LOL…as I drove off the premises, it kicked up again, but by the time I went around the freakin’ block to show the techs, the sound had stopped! I suspect the car is playin’ with me. It has 100600 miles on it…love the car, although it keeps costing me points having fun with it. Love you guys!
Did the techs check the CV joints?
The worse it gets the easier it is to analyze. First guess brake related, second guess bearing. Are the brake pads within limits? Are you in a moist environment? Best hope a little rust buildup that goes away after you use the brakes. I experienced a similar situation and a year later the wheel bearing went out. After the bearing was replaced no more mystery tic.