Despite all of the noises your car makes during your daily commute we all know our cars well enough to know when something doesn’t sound right. It is important when you hear something out of the ordinary to get it checked out sooner rather than later. Here are examples of different types of noises and what might be causing them.
Engine Noises
You’ll only hear these when the engine is running.They also often change their pitch with the speed of the engine. So if you increase the speed of the engine and the noise changes along with it then it’s engine related. Knocking, ticking, screeching, and grinding are common types of engine related noises. Always ensure your vehicle has the proper amount of oil at all times. Engine noises should never be left unchecked.
Brake Noises
Squeaking, grinding and scraping are the most common types of brake noises. All three of these most likely mean it’s time for new brakes. Other reasons include the use of low quality parts or improper installation. A grinding or scraping noise can occur whether the brake pedal is applied or not. Squeaking generally only happens when the brakes are applied.
Suspension Noises
When you hear a clunk, pop or creek while going over road imperfections you can bet it’s suspension related. If your suspension is in good shape it will run quiet and smooth over bumps and dips. You will only hear suspension noises when the car is rolling because the suspension must travel through it’s range of motions. Worn bushings, steering linkages, ball joints are usually the culprit. While shocks and struts will cause excessive clunking when they are at the end of their life.
Tire Noises
Tire vibration and humming will only be heard when the vehicle is moving and usually at higher speeds. Unevenly worn tires can cause a constant loud humming while rolling at mid to high speed. This noise is not to be confused with a wheel bearing which has a similar sound, but changes in tone as you increase speed or shift weight onto the offending bearing. A vibration sound indicates your tires aren’t rolling correctly. A tire balancing or replacement and balance will take care of the vibration.
In Cabin Noises
Sometimes you will hear noises coming from behind the dash that make it sound like gremlins are living in there. There many moving parts to the heating and cool air system than you would think. Actuators that open and close vents eventually go bad causing annoying vibrations. Seats that are worn or otherwise not latched in all the way make sounds that can trick you into thinking you need suspension repairs.
Hopefully this guide helps give you a better understanding should you encounter anything and have to question whether or not to get it looked at. Keep in mind if you wait too long it could end up being extremely costly. As always the ASE certified professionals at MR Auto SD are here to help. Feel free to stop by or give us a call at (858) 455-8222.
