We are looking at a 2002 2.4l T5. It drives nice but has a grinding sound turning sharp and under the hood there is a knocking sound. Is this normal for that age or a sign of a problem?

 

Neither is normal. Could be wheel bearing on left side. Could be rod knock which is not good.

 

I am not sure about the engine knock but I am pretty sure the grinding that you are hearing when you turn sharply is the wheel tread rubbing against the wheel well splash guard. I have a 2002 T5 with the OEM Pirelli's sized exactly to the original sizes and I still have an issue with rubbing. The good news is that it is on an aluminum plate that is removable if it is driving you crazy. This isn't uncommon as I have heard this from other S60 owners.

 

Rod knock is the death knell of the deal. You need it to be evaluated by a
professional who can i.d. this serious problem or rule it out.

 

Bad idea.

You end up rubbing through the plastic behind it, it ends up catching on the tire and you yank the whole damn thing out. Leave those plates there!

**Learn from someone else who thought that was a good idea at one time, and is short a splash guard because of it.**

 

What kind of fuel are you using,regular?