Brake noise but not squeal or grind

[HemiWilly]

Since the day I drove it home last year, my 300C has made a noise that sounds like (Star Trek) Tribbles purring. It happens with brake application at low speeds. When I asked the dealership mech's about it, I got the standard "..it's the ABS pressurizing." I've had ABS on other vehicles and never heard them make a sound.
Ideas?

[Rambit]

Originally Posted by HemiWilly

Since the day I drove it home last year, my 300C has made a noise that sounds like (Star Trek) Tribbles purring. It happens with brake application at low speeds. When I asked the dealership mech's about it, I got the standard "..it's the ABS pressurizing." I've had ABS on other vehicles and never heard them make a sound.
Ideas?

I haven't heard of anyone describing the sound you have, but I'm wondering if you have uneven brake pad deposits on your rotors causing vibrations when you lightly apply the brakes. I'd try bedding your brakes first. The instructions can be found here... http://www.zeckhausen.com/bedding_in_brakes.htm

I'm sure Dave Zeckhausen (supporting vendor) will see this thread and give you his opinion on this. Hope this helps.

EDIT: Sorry, I see that was your first post...so WELCOME to the forums. Lots of friendly people here to help you, just ask.

Rambit

[DZeckhausen]

Originally Posted by HemiWilly

Since the day I drove it home last year, my 300C has made a noise that sounds like (Star Trek) Tribbles purring. It happens with brake application at low speeds. When I asked the dealership mech's about it, I got the standard "..it's the ABS pressurizing." I've had ABS on other vehicles and never heard them make a sound.
Ideas?

While I was sitting in stop-and-go holiday traffic, my brakes began to make exactly the sound you described! It was driving me nuts. There was a specific point in the brake pedal travel where I could add pressure or release pressure and this "tribble purr" sound would eminate from somewhere in the front of the car.

I don't yet know what it is and the sound did go away eventually. But if it happens again, and I'm in a postion to do so, I'll try to chase it down.

Your description of the sound as a tribble purr is perfect! I'll have to remember that. The trick is finding a Chrysler service advisor who is also an original Star Trek fan.

If your car does it all the time, you should be able to demonstrate it to your service writer, then jump into another 300C and demonstrate that car NOT making the same sound. I know they don't all do this. My "ordinary" 2005 300C didn't ever do it and my 2006 SRT8 only did it during a portion of my recent trip. It's definitely not normal.