10 strange sounds that warn your car is having problems
While the car is moving, if you hear strange sounds coming from the tires, windshield, engine compartment or undercarriage, check it immediately because it could be a sign that there is a problem with the car's parts.
Below are 10 strange sounds that appear when car parts have problems:
1. Squealing noise under the hood
If you hear a high-pitched hissing noise under the hood after turning off the car, it could be a leak in the cooling system or vacuum system. While the car is running, this hissing noise is usually a warning sign of a leak in the vacuum line, hose, or fitting.
2. Hissing or rattling noises from the exhaust pipe
If you hear a hissing or rattling noise, this means there is a problem with your exhaust system. A faulty exhaust system can make a variety of sounds, and each individual sound can mean something different.
A hissing sound could be a clogged exhaust system, a rattling sound could be a loose exhaust hanger, and a hissing sound could be a cracked exhaust system. In these cases, you should have your vehicle inspected for exhaust system problems.
3. Small humming sound under the car
If you hear a humming sound under the car, your car may need a mechanic's help to better diagnose the problem. This sound can indicate that the differential needs lubrication, the transmission is faulty, or the wheel bearings or joints are worn.
Pay attention to what happened before and when your car started making noises. Try to give the mechanic as much information as possible so they can figure out the cause quickly. Without a thorough and professional inspection, it can be difficult to know what the problem is.
4. Loud screeching or grinding noises from the vehicle brakes
If you hear strange sounds every time you brake, this means it's time to check your car's brakes. At that time, the squealing sound indicates that the brake pads are completely worn out, this condition, if left untreated, can damage the brake disc every time you brake. Get your car checked as soon as possible.
5. Loud noise from tires
If you hear a loud banging or knocking noise, this could mean that the wheel bearings are worn. Other potential problems could be a flat tire, under-inflated tires, or improper tire alignment.
To find out exactly what is causing the noise, first check the tires. If the tires are fine, then move on to checking the wheel bearings.
6. Noise from the wipers
If you hear a scratching sound, it could be because your wiper blades are worn out. When this happens, the wiper blades will scratch the windshield. And replacing the windshield can be much more expensive than buying new wiper blades.
Poor wipers will also reduce visibility in the rain, making driving much more dangerous. In addition, the noise from the wipers will distract you while driving.
Therefore, you should fix this problem immediately by taking your car to a garage for professional repair or you can replace them yourself if you know how.
7. Clacking noise when driving
If you hear a grinding noise when driving over bumps, this means that your suspension system is having problems. Some of the system parts that may be faulty or damaged are: Worn shock absorbers, broken struts, worn leaf springs, damaged armrests, bad ball joints.
8. The engine makes a ticking sound
Your car engine can make a ticking noise for a number of reasons:
- Insufficient engine oil or oil pressure, resulting in lower than required lubrication volume and causing friction between metal parts, such as pistons and cylinders.
- The spark plug is misaligned, allowing gas to enter the engine and causing a ticking noise.
- Misaligned intake and exhaust valves in your vehicle's engine make it difficult for them to open and close, resulting in a rattling or ticking sound.
9. Growling sound when turning
If you hear a growling or slight grinding noise when turning the wheel, the problem could be with the wheel bearings. Listening carefully for any noises when turning and driving at high speeds on the highway can help you spot these problems early and fix them in time, saving you time and money.
10. Loud noise when steering
If you hear a squealing noise when turning the steering wheel, this could be due to low power steering fluid (in vehicles with hydraulic power steering). To avoid this, make sure your vehicle's power steering fluid reservoir is always topped up.
Additionally, if you hear a rattling or squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel, it is possible that your vehicle's steering rack is damaged due to steering rack friction or lack of lubrication.
While driving, do not ignore the noises and strange sounds that you hear, detect early and handle everything promptly to avoid facing more expensive repairs. The most important and best thing for you is to find a garage that you trust so that your car is properly maintained and repaired.