Common Car Noises and What They Mean
Every time you hear an unfamiliar sound coming from your vehicle, you should pay close attention and try to find out where it comes from, as ignoring it could lead to major trouble. Learning more about some of the most common car noises and what they mean can help you identify future problems and take action before they turn into costly repair bills. Below is a quick rundown of the most common car sounds and helpful tips on what to do about them.
Read more: Top 5 Signs Your Car is Dying
1. Engine reeving when you start the car
If your car is struggling to turn on and makes a rumbling sound, it probably means your battery is about to die. It may be low on fluid, past its prime, or in need of a jump. Although this isn’t a safety issue, a dead battery means your car can fail to start at any time, preventing you from getting to work or somewhere important. You should head to your local repair shop as soon as possible and ask for a battery test.
2. Screeching sound coming from under the hood
A squealing sound coming from underneath the hood of the car could indicate that the serpentine belt is loose or worn. Since this piece powers all your car’s major systems, including the alternator, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and radiator fan, it is vital to get it checked before it snaps. When an old serpentine belt snaps, drive torque to all the engine’s accessories is lost and you’re left with a car that won’t go.
3. Grinding sound when you apply your brakes
If you hear a squealing noise coming from your tires when you engage the brakes, then your brake pad indicator is probably rubbing against the rotor. While you are not in immediate danger, it usually means your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. If you wait too long to get your car checked out, braking efficiency could be compromised.
4. Roaring sound coming from underneath the driver’s seat
If you hear this noise and the driver’s seat is suddenly vibrating, there is probably a leak or crack in your exhaust system. When this happens, all your engine’s noises and vibrations get channeled into the car. While a malfunctioning exhaust might not seem an urgent repair, it means that carbon monoxide could be venting into the cabin, so this is a sound you want to get checked out immediately.
5. Groaning sound when you steer
If your car makes a loud noise when you turn the steering wheel and this feels stiff and unresponsive, this is likely a power steering malfunction, which means you could lose control over your steering soon. This is a significant safety issue, so we recommend getting it checked out right away. In the meantime, try not to make any fast or sudden turns in the car.
Read more: Common Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start
A strange noise coming from your car is never a good sign. Although some car issues aren’t as critical as others, we recommend paying a visit to your local technician as soon as you notice them in order to avoid bigger problems in the near future. If you live around Lubbock, TX, and are experiencing any mechanical issues with your vehicle, contact us at Carizma Motors or schedule a service online. Our qualified service team will make sure to get your car running smoothly in no time.
