9 Common Car Noises & What They Mean
9 Common Car Noises & What They Mean
Imagine going on vacation and having a long road trip. The weather is nice, and you feel happy to have some time off; suddenly, you hear a strange noise coming from your car. A joy breaker, right?
Some noises are common while driving and may not be a cause for concern, but others may be signs of serious issues and should not be ignored without professional advice.
Here are nine common noises that might indicate warning signs:
1. Squealing Brakes
What you hear:
A light screeching sound from your tires when you press the brake pedal, similar to nails on a chalkboard.
What is happening:
The brake pad indicator, a piece of metal, is scraping against the brake rotor once the pad material gets low, causing the squealing sound.
Should you worry:
Don’t worry! The brake pad indicator tells you when your brake pads are worn out and need replacing. Have it checked and fixed by a mechanic before the screeching turns into a louder noise.
2. Grinding Brakes
What you hear:
A loud, metal-on-metal scraping sound when applying your brakes.
What is happening:
Your brake pads are worn out, and the calipers are grinding against the brake rotor.
Should you worry:
Yes! Metal-on-metal grinding is dangerous. Driving without healthy brake pads is hazardous and can lead to a serious accident.
3. Groaning Yawn While Making A Turn
What you hear:
A groaning or whining noise when turning the steering wheel, especially when it’s locked at the furthest point.
What is happening:
There is stiffness in the power steering system, possibly indicating the end of the power steering pump's lifespan.
Should you worry:
Yes, this can become serious! If left unchecked, you could lose control of the steering.
4. Squeaking While Turning The Wheel
What you hear:
A squealing noise when turning the wheels, coming from the front of the car near the steering column.
What is happening:
This indicates a potential issue with the power steering system, possibly due to low power steering fluid.
Should you worry:
No major concern, but check your power steering fluid levels and top it up if necessary.
5. Squealing Under The Hood
What you hear:
A high-pitched screeching sound when starting the engine, like a bird chirping.
What is happening:
This could indicate a loose or worn-out serpentine belt.
Should you worry:
Yes, replace the serpentine belt immediately, as it controls vital parts of your vehicle. If it breaks, your car won’t function properly.
6. Knocking In The Engine Compartment
What you hear:
A constant knocking or pinging noise from the engine.
What is happening:
This could be due to using a lower octane gasoline than recommended, causing spark plug damage and erratic piston movement.
Should you worry:
Yes, use the recommended octane fuel, and if the knocking persists, have it checked by a mechanic.
7. Popping Noise In The Engine
What you hear:
A popping sound from the engine, often indicating a need for service.
What is happening:
Worn-out spark plugs or a clogged fuel filter may be the cause.
Should you worry:
This noise is common but should be addressed during regular car services to avoid further issues.
8. Flapping Noise When Running The Air Conditioning
What you hear:
A flapping or fluttering sound when the air conditioning is on.
What is happening:
A worn or broken ventilation flap belt could be the culprit.
Should you worry:
Not a major concern, but get it fixed to avoid the annoying noise.
9. A Rumbling From The Exhaust
What you hear:
A loud rumbling noise that increases with speed, sounding like a thunderous roar beneath the driver's seat.
What is happening:
You likely have a leak or break in the exhaust system or muffler.
Should you worry:
Yes, as the rumbling will get louder, and leaking exhaust gases, such as carbon monoxide, are harmful to the environment and passengers. Get it checked out immediately.