Automobiles make many different noises, most of which are a totally normal part of their operation. However, certain car sounds can indicate that something is wrong with the critical function of the vehicle and may mean that you need to bring your vehicle to a mechanic right away. Here are 6 car sounds that you should be aware of.
1. Grinding or Squealing Brakes
One of the most common — and dreaded — sounds that a car makes to let you know something isn’t right is squealing or grinding brakes. This can be a simple fix. In most cases you simply need new brakes. However, don’t delay. Worn brakes can lead to serious accidents.
2. A Hissing Sound from the Engine
If you hear a hissing sound from your engine, this could be an indicator of several things. Some hissing noises are normal, such as after you turn your vehicle off and the engine starts to cool down. However, hissing that can be heard while your car is running — particularly if it’s idling — may mean that you have a leak in a vacuum line. If this occurs, you’ll likely notice that your vehicle begins to idle roughly or faster than usual. Vacuum leaks will normally be accompanied by a check engine light.
3. Clunking or Knocking Underneath Your Car
Clunking or knocking sounds coming from the underside of your car certainly isn’t normal and likely needs the attention of an experienced mechanic as soon as possible. If you hear knocking or rattling that seems to get worse when you drive over rougher terrain, this could mean you have a problem with your suspension system. This can be something simple and relatively harmless such as a deteriorated or missing sway bar bushing – or it could be something very serious such as a worn out ball joint. For safety’s sake it’s best to get this checked out right away.
4. Screeching or Whining
An engine that squeals or whines when you start it up may have a problem with one of the accessory belts under the hood, particularly the serpentine belt in newer vehicles. A worn or failing belt will eventually lead to a breakdown.
5. A Crunching Sound from a Manual Transmission
If you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, be aware of crunching or grinding sounds that occur when you shift gears. This could mean your clutch is worn out or that you have bad synchronizers in your transmission. This isn’t a dangerous condition but continuing to drive will cause further damage to your vehicle.
6. A Popping Sound When You Turn
If your vehicle is all-wheel or front-wheel drive and starts to make a popping or snapping sound when you turn, this could indicate a problem with your constant velocity (CV) joints on the front axle of your car. Usually, the popping sound will only be heard when you turn the vehicle and will stop when you are driving straight.
Is Your Car Making Strange Noises? Bring It to CAMS Automotive Today
CAMS Automotive is an auto repair shop that is dedicated to serving the residents of Kenner, Louisiana, and surrounding areas. If your vehicle has started to make strange noises, let us take a look under the hood ASAP before you end up stranded on the side of the road or something else goes seriously wrong with your car. Call now to learn more or to book your service appointment at 504-461-9838.
