Did You Hear That? 9 Noises Your Car Shouldn’t Be Making

February 22nd, 2023 by

Key takeaways:

  • Rattling noises from the exhaust system can indicate an obstruction, be out of alignment, or have a crack.
  • If you hear a high-pitched squeal when braking, it’s likely due to worn brake pads.
  • Scraping noises from windshield wipers are usually due to a build-up of debris on the blades.
  • Clicking noise while turning is often caused by failing constant velocity joints.
  • The loud screeching noise from under the hood is most likely due to a worn-out or loosened serpentine belt.
  • A low-pitched humming may indicate several problems.
  • Worn-out shocks or struts usually cause thudding noise from tires.
  • Hissing from the engine could mean an oil leak, coolant leak, or overheating issue.

If you’ve owned an automobile, you know it will start making weird noises. Some of these car noises are normal – like the sound your engine makes when it starts up – and some are not normal. In this blog post, DCH Montclair Acura will tell you about the ten weirdest car noises you should never ignore. Keep reading to learn more!

Noise 01: Chugging or rattling noises

Reason: Exhaust system

A malfunctioning exhaust system can emit a whole symphony of noises, and each distinctive sound may suggest a different meaning. Chugging might indicate an obstruction in the exhaust system. It can be out of alignment if it makes a rattling noise. An exhaust system crack may be the cause of the hissing noise.

Bring your car to our auto mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible.

Noise 02: Squealing from brakes

Reason: Worn brake pads

Your car’s brakes are vital for safety, so you don’t want to ignore any strange car noises from that area. If you hear a high-pitched squeal when braking, it’s likely due to worn brake pads. The metal indicator on the pad is rubbing against the rotor, creating noise.

You can check your brake pads to see how much life they have left. First, find a safe place to park and engage the emergency brake. Then, locate the brake caliper and look at the pad. If it’s less than a ¼-inch thick, it needs to be replaced. However, it is best to go to professionals to change your brake pads.

Noise 03: Scraping noises from windshield wipers

Reason: Old wipers

Windshield wipers are important for safety, so you’ll want to keep them in good working order. If they start making a scraping noise, it’s likely due to a build-up of debris on the blades. To clean your windshield wipers, lift them away from the glass and run a rag along the length of the blade.

You can also use a windshield wiper brush to clean the blades. If the noise persists, it’s time to replace your windshield wipers.

Noise 04: Clicking while turning

Reason: Failing constant velocity joints

If you hear a low clicking noise while driving or turning, it’s likely due to failing constant velocity joints. These joints allow your wheels to turn while the car is moving, and they’re located in the front axle. If they fail, they can cause a clicking noise that worsens when you turn the steering wheel.

Having a technician check over your automobile as soon as possible is crucial. Failing constant velocity joints can cause serious damage to your car and may even lead to an accident.

Noise 05: Screeching from under the hood

Reason: Worn-out or loosened serpentine belt

A well-functioning car should produce very little noise, so if you hear a loud screeching from under the hood, it’s a cause for concern. The most likely culprit is a worn-out or loosened serpentine belt. In your automobile, the alternator, water pump, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and radiator fan are all driven by the serpentine belt.

Make an appointment to check the belt if you believe the screeching noise is coming from a worn or loose belt. Your auto mechanic will determine how bad it is and when you should replace it. The most crucial thing is to prevent an unexpected failure since your automobile won’t start without it.

Noise 06: A low-pitched humming

Reason: Possible causes include many things. Note the noise’s occurrence time so you can assist your auto mechanic with the issue diagnosis. A humming noise from your automobile may indicate that the differential requires lubrication, the gearbox needs repair, or the wheel bearings or universal joints need to be replaced.

Pay particular attention to what happens before and after your car’s noise. Give your technician as much information as possible; without a careful, expert inspection, it may be challenging to pinpoint the issue. Don’t let these car noises persist!

Noise 07: Thudding noise from your tires

Reason: Worn-out shocks or struts.

What to do: Your car’s shocks and struts play a vital role in keeping your tires planted on the road, so it’s no wonder that worn ones can make quite a racket. You may notice the thudding noise when driving over bumps, potholes, or even when turning. In addition to being noisy, worn shocks and struts can also cause your car to handle poorly and may shorten the life of your tires.

If you have an issue with your shocks or struts, get them replaced as soon as possible.

Noise 08: Hissing from the engine

Reason: Engine leak and overheating

A hissing noise from your engine is often a sign of an oil or coolant leak. If the leak is severe, it could also lead to your engine overheating. Check under the hood for any leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible. You should also monitor your engine’s temperature gauge to ensure it’s not running hot.

Noise 09: Growing yawn while turning

Reason: Failing power steering assembly

If you hear a noise like a “yawn” while turning the steering wheel, it’s likely an issue with your power steering assembly. The power steering system uses hydraulic liquid to assist in turning the wheels. A leak in the system can cause the fluid level to drop, making it harder to turn the wheel. Check for leaks in your steering system as soon as possible.

So, now you know the nine noises your car should never make. If it’s making any of these sounds, take it in to see us at DCH Montclair Acura, serving Clifton, NJ, as soon as possible! Our technicians will get your car fixed up and back on the road in no time – and with fewer distractions for you.

Schedule your service today!

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