Mitsubishi Repair: 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage, 2001 mitsubishi mirage, mitsubishi mirage

Question
I changed out my battery- it was time to. Then it started making a scraping/grinding noise appeared to coming from the driver-front side(wheel area).  It never made the noise at any particular time (whether the engine was cold or it had been running or miles). It would do it suddenly then stop. I initially though it to be a belt problem, took it to a mechanic and because I could not make it make the noise when someone else needs to hear it.  He didn't know what the problem was.  It was time to replace the belts so I had him do that.  The noise never went away.  Recently the noise has switched to the front passenger side (wheel area)and last longer than it did on the other side- much louder.  My dash brake light is coming on- so I will check the brake fluid to remedy that.  Could it be brake pads?  I am truly at at loss.  I never had any problems with this vehicle but since it is a month away of being fully paid off-it now wants to give me trouble.  HELP?!

Answer
Kirsten: My guess would be a broken anti-rattle clip on the brakes. I would also replace the brake pads and I believe the anti-rattle clips come with the new pads, so once they replace those. That noise should go away, unless they break it putting the brake pads on. But you can drive with the rattle clip broken. I had a car like that and though I really did not like the sound. The car handled ok, drove great but just had the darn sound. But I traded the car off but it's brakes were good. But if your light is coming on, it is time to get those brakes checked. A light on the dash is a sign something is wrong with your brakes. Could be it is just low fluid, could be you should have your fluid replaced with new fluid. But the rattle clips are ok to make noise. But cars have to have things done to them though out the years that you own them. Tune ups, new brake pads and what not. But these little cars will go and go. You need to get a repair manual for your car, at any parts store for around $20.00. You can then read up on your car and it will explain things. Hope this helps and good luck!