Car Noises That Could Mean Significant Repairs

Taking your car to a mechanic or waiting for a malfunction to happen are the only two diagnostic methods that are 100% reliable. However, there are a lot of indicators that things might be wrong with your car and that you’re up for a significant (costly) repair in the nearest future. You see, a well-maintained car has a familiar sound, regardless if we’re talking about the engine, brakes or acceleration. If the sound is off, chances are that something went wrong. With that in mind and without further ado, here are several ways you can use your auditory senses to recognize a significant repair.

1. Engine noise

The reason why the engine noise is the first item on this list is that it will be impossible to miss. With brake noises, you would have to brake and even brake sharply, seeing as how you might miss it otherwise. Now, there are three types of engine noises that you should worry about. First, a ticking noise will indicate that you have a low oil level. This problem is easily fixable, at least. Then, a pinging or knocking noise is more serious as an indicator an incorrect air-to-fuel mixture which results in improper combustion. Finally, a clicking noise means that you have a problem with ignition. Most likely, this is due to a dead battery or loose wiring.

2. Brake noises

One of the most dangerous and feared complications with your vehicle comes from the potential brake failure or complications. There are several noises commonly associated with brake trouble. First, you have the high-pitched, almost squealing noise. This means that you should get your brakes serviced as soon as possible. Then, you have the grinding or growling noises that are usually connected to the worn-out brake pads. In this scenario, the pads need replacement. Lastly, a squeaking noise can also be attributed to the sound of moving brake pads and shoes. In this case, a poor installation is a problem.

3. Exhaust noises

Another common type of worrying car noise is the so-called exhaust noises. Most commonly, we’re talking about hissing noises, which would indicate that there is a crack in the exhaust manifold or even a leaking gasket. According to experts behind a renowned car performance centre chugging noises coming from the exhaust are usually connected to a blockage in the exhaust system. Lastly, a misalignment in the exhaust manifests itself in rattling sounds underneath the car. Fortunately, this last part is quite unique and therefore difficult to miss or misinterpret.

4. Acceleration noises

The acceleration is an instance in which you’re pushing your vehicle to its limits. This is why it is likely that a problem with your car might manifest itself during the acceleration. For starters, squealing noise during the acceleration might have something to do with your drive belt. On the other hand, if the vehicle seems to be struggling during the acceleration, you might want to pay closer attention to the exhaust system or even the transmission. This is manifested through a distinct roaring noise that the majority of drivers already heard before.

5. Turning noises

In the end, while turning, your car may let out creaking, whining or even squealing noises. In this situation, there are two potential problems. Most commonly it’s either steering or suspension. Now, keep in mind that while turning, both you and your vehicle are at its most vulnerable. For this reason alone, the problem in question shouldn’t be taken lightly. As soon as you notice something is off, you should head straight to your mechanic and try to describe the problem as well as you can.

In conclusion

As the driver, you’re the first person to notice if there is a problem. Even a skilled mechanic might miss a problem if they don’t expect to see it but as a person who spends hours behind the wheel, you’re bound to be the first one to notice a problem. One thing should be abundantly clear – the problem won’t go away on its own. Rattling, squealing and whining is seldom random and if ignored for a long enough period of time, it might become a significant problem. We’re talking about the type of problem that either puts your life in danger or costs a fortune to fix. Don’t let it come to this.