Aside from a few key exceptions – Optimus Prime or KITT, for example – our cars aren’t proficient in English. Nevertheless, that doesn’t refute the fact that your vehicle certainly communicates with you. The sound might not always be pleasant to hear, though.
Differences between the normal sounds your car generates and the more worrying noises can be subtle, so it’s crucial to pay attention. As you wouldn’t overlook a person’s cry for assistance, you shouldn’t ignore your car when it’s essentially doing the same. By attempting to understand what’s troubling it, you can then proceed to take action.
Here at Savage L&B, our team is always on the lookout for out-of-the-ordinary engine sounds. Here’s an outline of various noises your vehicle may exhibit – and importantly, what these sounds might indicate.
Squealing / Chirping
High-pitched squeaks should not be considered a persistent annoyance to the driver – they often manifest a loose or worn belt. If you notice such sounds, especially from the engine, it’s likely your serpentine belt, controlling your alternator, power steering pump, and water pump. If you suspect this, schedule a service appointment without delay, as a malfunctioning belt can result in overheating, loss of power steering – and a daunting repair bill.
However, before you do, confirm the squealing isn’t from your brakes. Manufacturers intentionally add a small metal piece in your brake pads, creating a screeching sound to alert you that your brake pads are becoming thin. Observing your brakes pads’ state is essential, but brake pad replacement is far more common (and less expensive) than swapping your serpentine belt.
Knocking / Tapping / Pinging
It’s not someone lodged in your hood (hopefully). A faint thumping or ticking noise from the engine could denote an issue with the engine bearings. These bearings support the engine’s revolving parts – and they’re not hesitant about signalling when they’re declining.
Conversely, it could be a problem related to low-quality fuel or old spark plugs – both can induce further damage or engine failure. To avert this, contact our Service Department quickly at the initial sign of these insistent noises.
Rattling / Clanking
If you perceive a rumbling in your engine, it’s one of the most directly worrying car sounds. It’s an alert that something – potentially crucial for your safety – is unattached or mishandled. If you’ve inspected under your hood and are uncertain about what could be wrong, let an expert take a look.
A gentle rattling or profound roar could be a more immediate warning, as it often points to a deteriorating catalytic converter. Regrettably, the only remedy in this case is to completely replace the converter. Follow a regular maintenance schedule, and hopefully, you won’t encounter this situation.
Whoosing / Hissing
Typically, these noises result from a leak in the exhaust system. If overlooked, this leak can lessen both engine performance and fuel economy. The leak could stem from various places: punctures in the muffler, catalytic converter, or exhaust manifold are all potential leak sources. Luckily, our Parts Department stocks everything you need to restore harmony to your vehicle and have it operating smoothly once more.
A sustained hissing could also be due to coolant leakage or the vehicle’s cooling system overheating. If you think your car is overheating, halt and find a spot to park without delay – for your own safety and the health of your engine.
Transmission Grinding
Persistent grinding noises frequently originate from transmission problems and are most noticeable when shifting or altering gears. (Automatic transmissions produce jolting and trembling rather than a grinding noise.) Be aware of other symptoms of a malfunctioning transmission, like leaking fluid, a burnt smell, or a power shortfall. Consult with a seasoned or certified professional soon to avoid hefty transmission repair expenses.
Relish The Tranquility
The most tranquil sound your vehicle can produce is the lack of sound. A silent engine is a healthy engine, and at Savage L&B, we’re delighted to provide your vehicle the silent treatment. Have faith in our team of seasoned technicians for battery diagnosis, oil changes, and any other essential service.
When abnormal noises persist, it might be the right time to consider a new vehicle. Bring your old car to Savage and trade it for a new or certified pre-owned ride today. From the Jeep Renegade to the Dodge Durango, our vehicles purr like kittens and drive like dreams.
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