Have you started to notice new sounds coming from your vehicle? Do you find yourself wondering what that new clinking, clunking, or squealing noise is? Sometimes you can block out the sounds by turning up your radio or ignoring them, but should you? There are some common vehicle noises that you should not ignore. Let’s review.
What are Some Common Vehicle Noises You Should Not Ignore?
Our vehicles, like us, need proper maintenance and care, and even when we do everything we can to ensure they are in the best condition possible, something outside of our control can happen to cause them to have an issue. One easy way to identify a problem with your car, truck, or SUV is if it starts producing new sounds. Below we review some common vehicle noises, what they may mean, and why they should not be ignored (besides the fact that they may be irritating to hear).
- Rattling below you. If you hear something rattling around below you and it sounds like it is inside a wheel, it could be a loose lug nut. This noise commonly can be heard at low speeds and then may stop as you drive faster. This could mean your wheel wasn’t tightened properly the last time it was removed and replaced and is lose and at risk of coming off. Obviously, this is a vehicle noise that you should not ignore.
- Squealing when you brake. If you hear a squealing noise when you brake, that usually indicates an issue. Your brake pads may be nearing the end of their service life and should be replaced. This is typically caused by the brake pad indicator rubbing up against the rotor. The brake pad indicator is there to let you know when your brake pads have worn down and need to be replaced. This means there could be a problem with your braking efficiency and it is time to make an appointment at a Phoenix automotive repair shop.
- Screeching under the hood. Whenever you hear a screeching noise coming from under your vehicle’s hood, it is usually an indication that you have a loose or worn serpentine or other belt. Your serpentine belt drives several vital pieces of equipment in your car, including the alternator, water pump, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and radiator fan. If you think the screeching sound is a loose or worn belt, don’t ignore it.
- Clicking and popping when you turn. If you hear this sound when you turn a corner, but the noise stops when you go straight, one or both of the CV joint/s on your front axle could need replacing. When one of these wear out, it loses the grease that keeps the axles lubricated. It’s best to replace the CV joint rather than waiting until you need costly axle replacements.
- Humming under your car. A humming sound coming from under your car’s hood is a common vehicle noise you should not ignore. This sound could be caused by several different issues. Take notice when you hear the noise happening, so you can better help your mechanic diagnose the problem. If your vehicle is making this noise, it could mean the differential needs lubricant, the transmission is failing, the universal joints or wheel bearings are wearing out, amongst other things.
- Groaning when you turn the steering wheel. If your vehicle sounds like it doesn’t want to turn, there is probably a power steering issue. Squealing, grinding, and/or screeching noises that occur while you’re turning the steering wheel typically means there is a problem. Since being able to steer your vehicle is key to keeping it on the road, this is something you don’t want to ignore.
While your vehicle can’t actually talk, it can give you indications, via sounds, that there are issues and problems. We have only reviewed a few common vehicle noises you should not ignore; however, whenever your car, truck, or SUV starts having new sounds come from it, you should have it looked at by a Phoenix automotive repair shop.
Advanced Transmissions & Emissions can help with your Phoenix automotive repair needs. Don’t let sounds coming from your vehicle go unattended, as they can lead to you having larger issues. Contact us today.
