Is your car making weird noises? They might sound like strange squeaks, rumbles, or clicking sounds. Think of these as your car speaking to you. It may be begging for maintenance. Let’s run through the typical vehicle sounds and answer the question, why is my car making that noise?

Why Is My Car Making That Noise? Diagnosing Common Vehicle Sounds

Rumbling Sounds: Potential Issues with the Exhaust System

A rumble coming from the exhaust could mean the silencer is damaged. It can also mean the fitment rubbers securing the exhaust to the undercarriage are loose.

Clicking Noises: Diagnosing Problems with the Engine or Transmission

A clicking noise coming from the transmission is oftentimes an indicator of wear and tear on the gears. In this case, the bushes might be worn, requiring an overhaul of the transmission or its total replacement.

Grinding Sounds: Brake Wear and Other Concerns

If you hear a grinding noise from the front or rear wheels when braking, it is an indication of worn brake pads. Squealing noises signify worn discs or brake drums. This is typically found on the rear brakes of older model vehicles.

Hissing Noises: What’s Happening Under the Hood?

If there’s a hissing noise from the hood and you notice steam coming from the engine bay, you may have a bad water hose. There may even be damage to the radiator. If you hear a hissing noise under the hood of your car, you should:

  • Stop the car
  • Turn off the engine
  • Call roadside assistance

Driving the vehicle in this condition could end up seizing the engine and lead to costly repairs.

Popping Sounds: Identifying Suspension Problems

A popping sound from the wheel arch is usually a sign of suspension issues. It could be the gas in the shock absorbers isn’t sufficient to compensate for the road shock. The result is a reduction in ride quality.

Wheel bearings are vital to a car’s braking, steering, and suspension systems. Worn wheel bearings can make a howling or grinding sound that increases with speed.

Whining and High-Pitched Noises: Power Steering System and Belt Issues

  • Fan belt: If you’re pulling off and hear a whining sound like a high-pitch screech, it’s a sign the fan belt is loose or needs replacing.
  • Power steering belt: It could be a similar issue with the power steering belt if you hear the same sound when locking out your steering wheel on either side.
  • The serpentine belt usually emits a high-pitched squealing noise when the engine is started.

Low power steering fluid levels can cause difficulty steering.

Crunching sounds when turning can indicate an issue with the constant velocity joints or CV joints.

Knocking Sounds: Understanding Engine Troubles

If you hear a knocking sound in the engine, like a tapping or clunking sound when idling the vehicle (when the engine is warm), it could be a sign of severe problems in the cylinder head or combustion chamber. Typically, these repairs are extensive and expensive to fix.

Why Is My Car Making That Rattling Noise?: Loose Parts and Their Implications

If you have a loose engine mount or a heat shield that’s come loose from the fitting, you might notice annoying rattles happening that are hard to pinpoint.

When to Visit an Auto Repair Specialist: Knowing Your Limits

If you’re hearing any strange noises or experiencing unusual performance issues, don’t ignore them. These sounds could be your car’s way of asking for attention, and addressing them early can prevent bigger, more costly problems down the road. An experienced mechanic will diagnose and repair any issue, ensuring your vehicle is safe and reliable.

Trust Dave and Ray’s Automotive to get your car back on track—schedule your appointment today and experience the quality service that Omaha drivers have relied on for decades.

Dave & Rays Automotive Repair Shop in Omaha, NE

Before the summer heat peaks, consider taking your car to a professional mechanic to ensure it is in optimal condition for the hot months ahead. Addressing these issues early can help ensure a safe and smooth driving experience throughout the season. Our team has learned one thing: automotive problems are as varied and unique as the customers who bring them to us. Fortunately, our decades of experience in auto service and repair also mean that our skilled network of professionals is ready to accommodate an impressive scope of automotive issues. Contact us today.