When you’re out driving your car, the last thing you need is for it to start making unusual noises. It usually means something is wrong with your car, which is going to cost you money to fix.
Some car noises are serious and require immediate attention, while others can be out off for a while if you can’t afford repairs. This is why it’s important to understand what different noises mean.
If your car is making noise while you drive, make sure you know what’s causing it so you can repair the issue and prevent any further damage to your car.
7 Common Car Noises
When your car starts making unusual sounds, it’s basically talking to you trying to tell you that something isn’t quite right. Here are common car noises and what they mean for your vehicle.
1. A Sound Like a Coin in the Laundry Dryer
If you hear something rattling around in your wheel, it means your hubcap wasn’t tightened properly and one of the nuts is loose. This is an easy fix and should be resolved right away to prevent any hubcap or wheel damage.
2. Brakes Squealing or Grinding
If you hear a squealing noise when you use your brake, it most likely means your brake pads are nearing the end of their life and you’ll need to replace them.
If your brakes are grinding, this is a more serious issue. It means your brakes are so worn down that they are hitting the metal, which makes your brakes less effective.
3. Snapping Noise When You Turn
If you hear a snapping or clicking noise when you turn your wheel, it likely means that your constant velocity joints aren’t working properly and needs to be replaced.
4. A Squeak When You Accelerate
If you hear a constant squeak that grows louder as you accelerate, this indicates an issue with the universal joint. The U-joint is a component of the drive shaft and if it’s not working properly, you’ll need to get it fixed by a mechanic.
5. A Howling Noise
If your car is howling or whining, this is a sign that your bearings aren’t functioning properly. Bring your car to the mechanic so they can see why your bearings aren’t doing what they should be doing.
6. Banging From Under the Hood
If you hear banging from under the hood of your car, this indicates a serious issue with your vehicle’s valves, rods, or pistons. This is an important issue that needs to be fixed right away by a mechanic.
7. Squealing Under the Hood When Starting the Car
A squealing noise from under the hood of your car when it’s started probably means loose or worn-down accessory belts. It’s a cheap fix so you shouldn’t put off a visit to the mechanic for this issue.
For More Information
No one wants to hear unusual car noises while driving, but it’s very important to identify the noises and deal with them right away.
If you continue to ignore the noises, it could lead to serious problems with your car and potentially dangerous driving situations.