Car troubles are the worst. Your vehicle could break down when you least expect it. This is why you should pay attention to the sounds your car makes. Wise advice: if a sound persists longer than a few days, bring it to a mechanic. They can diagnose and hopefully fix the problem. Here are 10 car sounds you shouldn’t ignore and what might be the issue.
Ticking and Tapping
If you hear a ticking or tapping from your car, it’s time to investigate. Open up the hood and check the engine. The sound could mean you are almost out of motor oil. Find the dipstick and make sure your levels are good. If the sound persists, check under the car. There could be a pine cone or a tree branch stuck underneath. If that doesn’t work, take it to the professionals.
Rattling
A rattling noise can mean something serious. If your car rattles during a hard turn or when you accelerate, it could mean your joints are rusted. Or it could mean the muffler and heat shield are loose. Regardless, you want to take your car to an expert to solve the problem. If left untreated, the problem could get worse or cause other problems.
Booms
When your car makes a loud “boom” sound, it’s valid to panic. The sudden noise indicates that something might be wrong with the vehicle. It could be a backfire—when unburnt fuel ignites in the exhaust system—or a puncture in the exhaust system. The most common source is a blown tire. You may have run over a nail, or maybe the tires are just worn. Either way, don’t drive on it. Jack up the car and grab the tire iron; it’s time you learn how to put a new tire on.
Squeaking
Brakes wear out. Over time, you’ll hear a squeaking sound when you press the brake. Working brakes are one of the most important features of your vehicle. To ensure passenger safety and the safety of other drivers, bring your car in for a tune-up if your vehicle squeaks while you come to a complete stop. A car mechanic can quickly get the job done. Or if you’re a gearhead, change your brakes yourself. Either way, get them replaced right away!
Whining
Cars whine like animals whine when they are injured. If you hear a whining sound coming from your vehicle, there’s something wrong. Possible culprits include a loose or worn serpentine belt, a failing power steering pump, or worn wheel bearings. If the sound persists over a couple of days, it means it’s time to bring it to a mechanic. Don’t risk further damage by ignoring your car’s cry for help.
Thudding
Car problems will not go away even if you ignore them. If you hear your car “knocking,” it’s time to get it serviced. Bring it to a local mechanic and have them diagnose the problem. The sound potentially could mean your vehicle has worn engine parts, low oil pressure, incorrect fuel, or a faulty knock sensor. These are more complex issues, so you can take it straight to the mechanic.
Hissing
If your car begins hissing like a snake, you shouldn’t avoid your snake phobia. The sound could mean there’s a leak in the vacuum line, cooling system, or air conditioning. Check the engine coolant and ensure it’s full—your car could be overheated. You can tell there’s an issue with the AC when it stops working or emits a chemical smell. Have a buddy look at it and see if it needs professional work.
Grinding
A grinding sound could be due to several issues. It could be with the brakes, wheels, suspension, engine, or transmission. While you may be able to change your own brakes, you may need professional help if it’s not the issue. Figure out where the grinding sound is coming from. Does it happen when you brake or when you turn the wheel? At least knowing the source of the sound will help you communicate the problem to your mechanic.
Tire Noise
The tires are a crucial part of your vehicle—they help get you from A to B. If your tires are making weird noises, you should pay attention. The sounds could indicate tire wear, damage, alignment problems, wheel bearings, or suspension issues. If the noise persists, bring your vehicle to a garage. The last thing you want to do is jeopardize your safety or cause other, more serious problems.
Squealing
Your vehicle may squeal due to loose serpentine belts, low power steering fluid, worn brake pads, suspension issues, or wheel bearings. Inspect the car for the source of the sound. Check the fluids—oil, engine coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and brake fluid. Look at the belts and analyze the brake pads. Try to pinpoint where it is happening. If it’s a complicated fix, don’t hesitate. Bring it to someone who knows how to fix cars.
