Diagnosing car problem sounds can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of components breaking when least expected. It also eliminates unexpected dangers on the road, keeping you and your family safe during everyday errands and long-distance trips.
Before You Begin Diagnosing Car Problem Sounds
Listening for car problem sounds requires some patience and a fine-tuned ear that can key in to abnormalities. This also means that you need basic knowledge of what a typical car will sound like, and every car is slightly different. Whenever you first buy a vehicle, make note of how it sounds. This is its top condition.
Some things to keep in mind about car problem sounds:
● Your car may make car problem sounds even if no warning light comes on. Trust your ear and your instinct. It’s best to check up on noises you suspect.
● Car problem sounds do not necessarily mean that your car is dangerous to drive. However, your car makes noises when something isn’t working right. Therefore, it’s always safer and better for your vehicle if you have the car problem sounds addressed early on.
The Top Five Most Common Car Problem Sounds
Chirping, clunking, whirring, squealing, flapping, and grinding are just a few types of car problem sounds you might hear. Each of these noises can originate from several different locations on and in your vehicle. To help narrow them down, turn off your radio and listen. Then unroll your windows and listen again. You may need to do this as you drive, turn, go uphill, or stop.
During your investigation, you may find one of these five most common car problem sounds:
1. Clunking, Grinding, Squealing Brakes - Applying the brakes should be smooth and controlled. It’s one of the most important functions in the vehicle. Car problem sounds surrounding the brakes should, therefore, be repaired right away. Squealing typically means dirt or wear of rotors or pads, indicating replacement. Grinding means the brake pads have worn down to nothing and metal is now rubbing against metal. And clunking means that hardware is damaged or improperly installed.
2. Clunking, Grinding, Squealing When Turning - A number of car problem sounds make themselves known during a turn. Almost all of these stem from a steering linkage issue. It may be damaged and require replacement or simply need lubrication.
3. Tapping or Clicking Engine - If your engine seems to have car problem sounds like these, it might be a matter of simply being low on oil. Try changing the oil. In the case of an oil change not fixing the problem, there might additionally be a loss of pressure or system blockage.
4. Rattles Beneath the Vehicle - Car problem sounds coming from underneath a vehicle can be very difficult to place and diagnose because the noises echo and travel. However, rattling generally means something is loose and the biggest culprits are the exhaust system and brake pads.
5. Chirping or Squealing with Acceleration - Any high pitched car problem sounds during acceleration can be attributed to a loose or slipping belt, broken pulley, or misaligned pulley and belt system.
Car Problem Sounds: A Valet Assessment
Valet drivers are not experts in car repairs. However, they do have a lot of experience driving and listening to vehicles. Many valet drivers can hear car problem sounds and even diagnose what might be the problem. Most importantly, valet drivers care.
Unparalleled Parking valet drivers have a wealth of knowledge and compassion for keeping the public safe. All attendants drive safely, keep parked cars secure, and ensure the upmost customer service. Any car problem sounds they hear are addressed to the driver.
For your next business or private event, consider hiring Unparalleled Parking. For more information on valet services, contact us at (651) 300-1515.