Learn the important clues that your vehicle may need immediate help and save big on major repairs
Your car gives you lots of clues about its health. If your engine is humming smoothly, then you know that everyone is okay. However, if you begin to hear some sounds that you normally don’t hear, then there could be some trouble right around the corner. So what are the “bad car sounds” that you should look out for? Here, we will detail seven of the most common car noises that you should never ignore. If you ever hear any of these sounds, be sure to have your vehicle taken to your local car service center right away.
1). Whistling Noise from the Car Engine
If you hear a whistling noise from your engine, then this may indicate that you have a vacuum leak. This can lead to a poor air-fuel mix which could lead to poor vehicle performance as well as reduced fuel efficiency. Since this issue involves your engine, you should take this very seriously. If you hear a whistling noise, then be sure to see a service center technician right away.
2). Brake Noise
One of the most common strange sounds is squealing or grinding when applying the brakes. This is a serious situation because it can affect the braking capability of your vehicle. Therefore, if you hear your brakes make any unusual sounds, then your brake pad may be due for replacement. Have your brakes checked as the first sound of trouble.
3). Rattling Noise Under the Hood
If you have an older vehicle, then you may occasionally hear a rattling sound from under the hood. This usually happens if you have loose parts or damaged vehicle components. In many cases, this issue could be resolved with a simple parts replacement. It is recommended that you choose original equipment manufacture (OEM) parts for better performance and durability.
4). Knocking Sound from the Engine
Another common bad sound is knocking from the engine. This type of sound indicates that your engine may have worn-out bearings or connecting rods. Since this unusual sound involves your engine, you should have it looked at right away. Driving with a knocking engine could lead to major repairs or a complete vehicle breakdown.
5). Grinding Noise When Shifting Gears
A grinding sound while shifting gears usually means that there is an issue with the vehicle’s transmission. Since your vehicle’s transmission is critical to the operation of the vehicle, you will want to take this usual sound very seriously. Be sure to have your vehicle’s transmission checked at the first indication of grinding while switching gears.
6). Hissing Noise from the Exhaust
Some older vehicles may experience a hissing sound coming from the exhaust. This is usually caused by an exhaust leak which can lead to poor vehicle performance. A technician will be able to identify the source of the leak and patch it up or replace that part of the exhaust system.
7). Whining Noise from the Transmission
If you hear a whistling sound coming from the transmission, then you may have low transmission fluid or some other issue within the transmission system. Ignoring this bad sound could lead to transmission failure. Be sure to have a service center technician check your transmission at the first sign of trouble.
Knowing Your Car’s Healthy and Unhealthy Sounds
You must always take any strange car sound seriously. Whether you hear squealing from your brakes or a knocking sound from your engine. All of these sounds are warning signs that your vehicle needs attention. When you hear one of these bad sounds, then be sure to visit a service center right away. Catching a vehicle issue early can help save you from a vehicle breakdown or major repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have some additional questions about car vehicle sounds. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject.
Any sounds that are different from the everyday audio feedback from your vehicle should be checked out. That includes sounds such as squeaks, thumps, rattles, and whistling noises from your car.
Sounds from a normal functioning vehicle include the humming of the engine and the sound of tires rubbing on the road. Occasionally, you may hear clicks from the turn signal and swipes from the windshield wipers.
A car can make lots of noise if they are running off-road, on an uneven surface, or when traversing over sand, water, or snow. Also, a car can make lots of noise on older or worn tyres. Finally, vehicles with larger engines and modified exhaust systems may make lots of noise.
A bad car engine sound can include knocking, tapping, or rattling sounds. The most common noise from a bad engine is a knocking sound.
One of the biggest sources of rattling in a vehicle usually comes from issues with the vehicle’s exhaust system or problems with the engine. Also, you may hear rattling sounds if there is a loose part in your vehicle.
When you visit the service center, be as specific as possible when it comes to describing the sound. Also, be sure to let the technician know when you hear the sound and where the sound is coming from.
