I recently bought a 2018 Focus SE. When I accelerate from a complete stop, I hear a dragging noise from the front passenger side. This only happens when I start moving from a stop, and then the sound goes away and the car drives normally. Someone mentioned it might be worn engine mounts, which could explain a slight tremble, but I don’t think that’s related to the dragging noise.
If by dragging you mean a squealing noise, it could be a brake caliper not releasing properly. But if you hear a scraping, grinding, or scratching sound, lift the car with a jack and check underneath. Sometimes the under shields get torn and can drag on the pavement, causing weird noises. Look for any trim hanging down.
If nothing is visibly dragging, give the wheel where the noise is coming from a firm shake. If it moves or wiggles, the wheel bearing might be failing. When wheel bearings get dry, they can make a rough noise from a stop to moving.
Hi, it’s definitely not a brake squeal. After I bought the car, I saw that the under shield was placed in the trunk. It looks like the previous owner thought it was part of the problem. I checked under the engine and didn’t see anything dragging.
When I say “give your wheels a tug back and forth,” I mean to grab the wheel firmly and shake it from side to side and back and forth. If the wheel moves or feels loose, it might mean the wheel bearing is failing.
If you could get a video of the noise that would be pretty helpful
okay sure ill update it