Is your car making weird noises on your way to work? It’s a good idea to have your car inspected before something goes wrong, and you’re stranded on the side of the highway calling AAA.

Paying attention to new noises is one of the easiest ways to spot trouble before it gets worse. Below are common car noises, what they usually point to, and why fast service matters.

What Car Noises Mean it’s Time for Auto Repair?

Here are ten common noises vehicles emit and what parts you need to have replaced in order to get your car back into working order.

Squealing

If you hear a squealing noise, it’s usually from worn belts, like the fan belt of the power steering. When you hear this sound there’s a good chance the belts need adjusting or replacing.

Leaving the problem results in the belt potentially snapping – not something you want to have to happen to your steering at you’re turning a corner.

A broken fan belt could cause the radiator to overheat, seizing the engine. A trained mechanic will identify the worn belt, replace it, and have you on your way in no time.

Humming, Whining, or Whirring

A humming or whirring sound coming from underneath the vehicle can signal problems such as:

  • A failing fuel pump
  • Low transmission fluid or transmission issues
  • A dry or damaged differential

If the fuel pump fails, nothing delivers gas to the engine. On the other hand, if the differential locks or breaks, you lose traction. Meanwhile, if the transmission goes, there’s no way for your vehicle to change gears.

Creaking

Creaking noises coming from under the hood usually indicate problems with the suspension or steering. These noises may also sound like groaning, squeaking, or clicking.

It might be a quick fix, requiring something as easy as topping up the steering fluid feeding the power steering pump. Or it could be a more complex problem involving worn CV or universal joints in the steering rack causing the sound.

Screeching or Grinding

A screeching or grinding noise coming from the front or rear wheels usually indicates the brake pads or drums are worn and need replacing.

It’s common for worn brake pads to produce a grinding sound as the metal on the pads contacts the metal discs.

Worn drums tend to make a screeching or rubbing noise indicating over-wearing and that they should be replaced.

Flapping

A flapping noise coming from under the hood is a sign of a broken belt slapping against other components in the engine compartment.

In some cases, it might only be debris contacting the fan causing the sound. Stop and check under the hood immediately before the problem results in an extensive repair.

Clicks

If your car won’t start and there’s a clicking noise coming from under the hood, it is a sign that the car battery is dead.
The clicking is the sound of the starter motor trying to turn over. However, with no current coming from the battery, it just results in a fast-pacing clicking noise.

Knocking

Engine knocking can come from several issues, including:

  • Incorrect fuel octane
  • Spark plug problems
  • Fuel injector issues
  • Air-to-fuel ratio concerns

Knocking should be checked quickly since it can lead to long-term engine damage if left unaddressed.

Hissing

If you hear a hissing noise coming from under the hood, it’s a sign that the radiator is overheating. If there’s steam coming from the engine compartment, it means there’s a leak.

Rattling

Rattling is usually a sign of a loose exhaust pipe clashing against the chassis. One or more of the exhaust rubbers likely snapped and needs replacing.

Shuddering

If there’s a shudder when driving, it usually means the wheel alignment is out. You’ll also notice a shudder in the steering wheel, especially when braking.

Schedule a service appointment here.

Schedule Automotive Repair in Omaha with Dave & Rays Automotive

Strange sounds usually don’t fix themselves, and waiting can turn a small issue into a bigger repair. Dave & Ray’s Automotive offers accurate inspections and expert automotive repair in Omaha for fast answers and real solutions. Contact us today or schedule your visit to get your vehicle back to smooth, quiet driving.

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