If you are hearing strange noises that you have never heard before coming from your vehicle, it’s an indication that you’re due for a car service. Cars, like people, communicate when something isn’t quite right. Often, a worn or unbalanced part will start to make weird sounds. By listening carefully to the type of noise, your auto mechanic can determine what the possible problem may be, indicating the type of necessary car repair.
Here are some common causes of those unsettling noises:
- High-pitched squealing – This noise, accompanied by sharp, jerky motions when turning the steer wheel at low speed, could indicate that the power steering belt needs to be tightened or replaced, or that the power steering fluid level is too low. If the noise continues after starting the engine, it could be a problem with other belts, such as the alternator, air conditioner compressor, or water pump. Schedule a car service; it may be a simple adjustment is all that is needed.
- Whistling/hissing – This noise could be due to a broken or missing vacuum hose if you hear it when the engine is running or at idle. Your engine will probably shake and idle poorly, and the performance of your car (power and mpg) will be decreased.
- Rattling/Pinging – If these sounds are heard (like marbles in a can) when the engine is revved up, abnormal combustion called “detonation” or “spark knock” could be taking place. Schedule a car service as soon as possible to prevent more serious damage caused by key engine parts overheating.
- Tapping/clicking/clattering – A light tapping or clicking sound may be heard for a few minutes if your car has sat idle for a while and the oil has not had sufficient time to lubricate the engine. The sound is caused by valve lifters that need to refill with engine oil upon starting. If the noise persists, an oil and filter change may be necessary.
- Roaring – This sound is typically caused by a leak either in the muffler or exhaust pipes, and will become louder as the engine accelerates. A leak emits poisonous carbon monoxide gas into the atmosphere, and also into the car. A timely car repair will keep your vehicle running clean and your passengers safe.
If you are hearing any of these car noises, call your auto mechanic and schedule a car service and inspection. Knowing which sounds you should never ignore—and how to describe them to a car repair mechanic, could save you lots of grief and money.
To determine what your car noises are indicating, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for professional advice. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
If you are hearing strange noises that you have never heard before coming from your vehicle, it’s an indication that you’re due for a car service. Cars, like people, communicate when something isn’t quite right. Often, a worn or unbalanced part will start to make weird sounds. By listening carefully to the type of noise, your auto mechanic can determine what the possible problem may be, indicating the type of necessary car repair.
Here are some common causes of those unsettling noises:
- High-pitched squealing – This noise, accompanied by sharp, jerky motions when turning the steer wheel at low speed, could indicate that the power steering belt needs to be tightened or replaced, or that the power steering fluid level is too low. If the noise continues after starting the engine, it could be a problem with other belts, such as the alternator, air conditioner compressor, or water pump. Schedule a car service; it may be a simple adjustment is all that is needed.
- Whistling/hissing – This noise could be due to a broken or missing vacuum hose if you hear it when the engine is running or at idle. Your engine will probably shake and idle poorly, and the performance of your car (power and mpg) will be decreased.
- Rattling/Pinging – If these sounds are heard (like marbles in a can) when the engine is revved up, abnormal combustion called “detonation” or “spark knock” could be taking place. Schedule a car service as soon as possible to prevent more serious damage caused by key engine parts overheating.
- Tapping/clicking/clattering – A light tapping or clicking sound may be heard for a few minutes if your car has sat idle for a while and the oil has not had sufficient time to lubricate the engine. The sound is caused by valve lifters that need to refill with engine oil upon starting. If the noise persists, an oil and filter change may be necessary.
- Roaring – This sound is typically caused by a leak either in the muffler or exhaust pipes, and will become louder as the engine accelerates. A leak emits poisonous carbon monoxide gas into the atmosphere, and also into the car. A timely car repair will keep your vehicle running clean and your passengers safe.
If you are hearing any of these car noises, call your auto mechanic and schedule a car service and inspection. Knowing which sounds you should never ignore—and how to describe them to a car repair mechanic, could save you lots of grief and money.
To determine what your car noises are indicating, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for professional advice. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
