I have a 03 stock base and when slowing to a stop a buzzing noise comes from the engine that sounds like an electric motor. On top of that noise, an intermittant grinding/grunting noise appears on braking.

Both of these sounds occur during braking at less than ~15 mph. The buzzing noise appears first then the grinding/grunting. I can actually feel the grinding/grunt thru the brake pedals and feels as though the brakes are loose during the grinding but the car stops well. At a complete stop, all noises goes away. The brakes are absolutely quiet above ~15 mph with no noise whatsoever.

I have had the brakes checked at a Nissan dealer (charged me $95) who could replicate the problem only to say that my brakes were okay. I had them checked at my mechanic who says the same. No dash lights appear either.

any ideas?

 

My first guess would be the ABS system with a buzzing noise from the engine bay and a grinding/grunting sound that can be felt through the pedal aswell as it only doing it under 15mph makes me assume it assume it would be something with a ABS related problem but dont mark my words on that. Just my .02 cents.

 

Yep...sure sounds like the ABS is shot. The mechanic should of known better too!

While your checking...check out the tightness of your springs.

 

Well, 2 days ago, I ran over a big puddle during a storm and must have splashed alot of water under the car and wheels. Now the noise is gone!

Maybe it cleaned an ABS sensor? I dunno. The noise is completely gone. Car brakes smoothly.

 

weird .. glad it's resolved, or at least seems like it is : )