Is something wrong with your vehicle? If so, there are usually some pretty clear indicators. Cars are built to let you know when something isn’t quite working as intended, so always keep your eyes peeled for any signs or symptoms of disrepair.
While you’re at it, keep your ears open, too. One of the easiest ways to discern that something is amiss with your vehicle is to pay attention to strange or unusual noises. Here are just a few of the most common sounds that could indicate an issue with your vehicle.
5 Automotive Noises to Listen For
- Hissing or chirping. Is your engine making a hissing or chirping sound? If so, you may have an issue with the catalytic converter. Alternatively, you could have a pipe or other component that’s suddenly sprung a leak. Hissing or chirping from your engine could be indicative of any number of problems with your vehicle, so noises like these will mean you need to get your engine checked out fast.
- Rattling. Heavy vibrations usually mean something’s wrong, whether you feel them in your steering wheel or in the wheels themselves. Rattling often points to a loose lug nut, but it could also indicate an issue with the steering column, with low power steering fluid, or even with your vehicle’s braking system.
- Squealing or grinding. Speaking of the braking system: if you hear a squealing or grinding sound every time you try to bring your vehicle to a stop, that could be dangerous. Chances are, your brake pads are worn down, and you should have them replaced as soon as possible.
- Rumbling. Another sound to listen up for is rumbling from the exhaust pipe. Usually, this points to either a hole in the muffler or a leak in the fuel injection system. Either way, you’ll want to get to a service center as quickly as possible.
- Whirring. Finally, keep your ears open for the sound of the engine whirring during acceleration. This could point to any number of engine issues that require prompt repair.
No matter what kind of strange sounds you’re hearing, it’s important to have them checked out by a qualified technician. To schedule maintenance with us, reach out to one of our body shop locations at your next convenience.
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