Unusual noises from your car: Causes and solutions

Car making noise from the transmission

The signs of noise coming from the transmission could be due to damaged bearings. This issue can occur in both manual and automatic transmission vehicles. Unlike the squeaking noise from engine bearing failures, the knocking sound from the transmission bearings is generally less bothersome. However, this issue is quite rare, mostly occurring in vehicles that have been in use for over a decade.

To ensure your vehicle operates safely and reliably, it is crucial to bring it to the garage for a thorough inspection. The team of technicians at the garage will conduct a comprehensive check to accurately identify the cause of any unusual noises in the car. This not only helps detect issues early but also prevents more serious problems from occurring.

Additionally, you should adhere to a regular maintenance schedule, which includes timely transmission fluid changes and inspections of related components such as bearings, oil filters, and other parts of the drivetrain system. This helps maintain optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle's components.

After replacing the bearings or servicing the transmission, it's also important to monitor your vehicle's condition in the following period. If you notice any unusual signs, such as strange noises or vibrations, bring your car to the garage immediately for an inspection. Detecting and addressing issues early will save you repair costs and ensure your driving safety.

Car engine noise

Clanking, screeching, ear-piercing sounds

There are many reasons that can cause a clanking noise in a car engine, with some common causes including the tensioner pulley, idler pulley, serpentine belt, water pump, and alternator being faulty. If the bearings are not adequately lubricated, they can become dry and stiff, causing metal parts to rub against each other, which creates the noise.

In more severe cases, the bearings can become chipped, or the bearing races can crack, leading to louder noises. If not addressed promptly, this issue can affect other components, especially causing the serpentine belt to snap. To fix this, it's essential to inspect and properly lubricate the bearings. If a bearing is damaged, it should be replaced immediately. Additionally, ensure proper cleaning to prevent water from entering and causing damage.

Engine knocking sound

Engine knocking is usually caused by excessive thermal clearance. Thermal clearance helps prevent seizing during the gas distribution process when parts rub against each other, expand, and generate heat. It is recommended to adjust the thermal clearance every 50,000 km of operation. If the thermal clearance is too wide, it will create friction between the valve tip and rocker arm, leading to knocking sounds and rapid wear of these components.

If you hear a hammering sound, the engine might be misfiring. If the car makes a knocking noise when starting or accelerating, it is often a sign of ignition system issues. A faulty ignition coil or spark plug can cause the ignition timing to be off, resulting in incomplete combustion of the air-fuel mixture, and causing exhaust emissions. To fix this problem, check and replace the ignition coil or spark plug as needed.

The car makes a clicking sound

If your car produces a dry knocking noise while the engine RPM increases, it often indicates that the engine is lacking lubrication for its internal components. The causes could be insufficient oil, aging oil with accumulated sludge, a malfunctioning oil pump, clogged oil lines, or using the wrong type of oil for the vehicle. Prolonged exposure to this condition can damage parts such as the pistons, cylinders, camshaft, connecting rods, and piston rings.

Additionally, knocking sounds can also occur when the pistons or piston rings are worn out and have gaps, leading to impacts during operation. If not addressed promptly, this issue can reduce compression pressure, allow oil to enter the combustion chamber, reduce power, and cause a loss of acceleration. You should check and top up the oil if needed, replace the oil regularly, and use the appropriate oil for your vehicle.

Car making noise in the steering system and axle

Car making a rattling noise

If you hear a whining or buzzing noise while driving, it is likely that your vehicle is low on power steering fluid or there is an issue with the power steering pump. This problem often occurs in vehicles with hydraulic power steering systems and is usually accompanied by signs such as a heavy steering wheel and vibrations. If you encounter this issue, you should check and top up the power steering fluid, and inspect the power steering pump to ensure it is functioning properly.

The car makes a clunking sound

If your car makes a clunking sound and jerks slightly when shifting gears, it is often due to a problem with the driveshaft. The issue might be caused by a damaged driveshaft rubber boot, accumulated dirt or water, or worn gears. When shifting gears, torque is transmitted from the transmission to the driveshaft, and the gears collide with each other, causing the noise. To resolve this, you should inspect and replace the driveshaft rubber boot if it's damaged, clean and lubricate the gears, and replace any worn gears as necessary.

Car makes noise in the brake system

Squeaking noise from the braking system

A squealing noise from the brake system is one of the most common issues. If this noise only occurs for about 5-15 minutes after starting the vehicle, it is usually a normal condition. The cause may be rainwater or car wash water that hasn't fully dried, so you should check and dry the brake system after washing your car and avoid leaving the vehicle exposed to rain.

However, if the squealing noise persists every time you apply the brakes, it is likely that the brake pads are worn out, the brake discs are warped, the brake pistons are sticking, or the calipers are faulty. You should replace the brake pads and discs if they are worn or warped, and inspect and repair the brake pistons and calipers.

Clunking noise at the brake pedal

When you press the brake pedal and hear a clunking noise, it is likely that there is an issue with the braking system. The cause could be a lack of cleaning for an extended period, accumulation of dirt, or exposure to water. You should have the braking system thoroughly cleaned, and inspect and replace any components affected by water.

Unusual sounds from your car should not be ignored, as they often signal underlying issues that need to be checked and addressed promptly. To ensure your vehicle remains stable and safe, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial. Don’t hesitate to contact reputable maintenance centers for timely advice and repairs. With proper care, you can not only extend the life of your vehicle but also ensure a smooth and safe driving experience