Ok, so I just got a beautiful 01 Sebring coupe lxi with the 3.0l engine. I hear a noise like a grumbling sound - idano - at first I thought it was the power steering or something... but it has nothing to do with me turning the wheel.

It happens when I start the car cold and put it into gear, reverse or drive, and goes away once I pull away. At the same time I notice the revs go down. I've noticed the same sound in my dads 02 sebring convert. so I wonder if this is pretty normal? Thanks!

Could it be the torque converter?

A "racheting" or clicking sound is heard during garage shifts or when the vehicle is coming to a stop. This sound is normal and is associated with the operation of the transaxle shift solenoid. On some vehicles this sound may be more noticeable than others because of variations in sealing of the solenoid sound shield.

A "racheting" or clicking sound is heard during garage shifts or when the vehicle is coming to a stop. This sound is normal and is associated with the operation of the transaxle shift solenoid. On some vehicles this sound may be more noticeable than others because of variations in sealing of the solenoid sound shield.

:2cents:
I just got bought a used 00 Sebring Convert. I love it but have the same exact problem. The "retcheting" sound comes into play everytime I go into reverse and drive only. My mechanic said that they probably presurized the engine so harsh @ the dealership prior to me buying it that this "Gear Box/Cover" or "SSS" ? might have been blown off. Is this "SSS" something that can be replace on these cars? Any idea how much? I am relieved to know its not the transmission!
Thanks, Vance in ATL