We have all asked the question, “What is that noise?” at some point when we hear an alarming sound coming from our vehicle. We turn down the radio, stop talking, pull over, start again, and the process continues until we pinpoint the origin of the alien noise. It is critical to notice the sounds your vehicle makes and, even more importantly, to have a trustworthy mechanic repair the problem.

The more you know, the more you can address those moments when your automobile begins to speak an unfamiliar language. Following up and having the issue repaired is always essential to keep you and other drivers and pedestrians around you safe. Approximately 44,000 automobile accidents are attributed to poor tire, brake, steering, suspension, and transmission maintenance, which is mostly preventable.

Noises You Should Not Ignore

Below are a few common car noises you should never ignore and what they can indicate is happening with your vehicle.

Thudding

Tire pressure is susceptible to changes in the weather. A ten-degree temperature drop overnight can reduce tire pressure causing the tires to be underinflated. Low tire pressure reduces your automobile’s performance, can contribute to poor gas mileage, and cause tires to show signs of wear quicker than properly inflated tires, so watch for the tire dash indicator and check the pressure on your tires once a month. 

We have all lobbed over a curve or centered a pothole in the road, rattling our nerves and vehicle a little more than we like. Those jarring incidents can knock your tires out of line, causing improper wear. Realigning the tires is critical to tire maintenance. 

Squealing or Screeching Under the Hood

If you hear a wild squeal or screech under your hood when you first crank up, you may have a loose or worn belt. Not only is this noise annoying, but your car can stop running if the belt breaks and that broken belt can cause other damage under the hood. This break could happen anytime while driving, so schedule an appointment immediately to keep your car operational. 

Screeching or Groaning When Brakes are Applied

Brake pads are often designed to make this noise when they have reached the end of their life. You cannot easily see your brake pads, but you can hear the audible cue of groaning or clicking telling you they need attention. Failing to replace your brakes can cause further damage to the braking system, including the brake discs and drums.

Wobbling Washing Machine Laundering Coins

The noise of an off-balance washing machine will bring you running. Throw in a handful of coins, and you have a distinct noise. If you hear this sound driving down the road, pull over as soon as it is safe. 

This noise could indicate a loose lug nut. And loose lug nuts mean loose tires. Tighten the nut if possible or call for assistance to prevent an accident, but have the issue fully addressed for your safety.

Ticking Under the Hood While Idling

A ticking noise that intensifies when accelerating could indicate a low oil level or pressure, the wrong oil was used, or the oil pump is failing. Low oil can also cause a car to shake. Oil to an automobile is like water to a human; they cannot run without it. Proper oil maintenance is critical for the life and health of your car. 

Having the oil changed consistently by a local mechanic or the same oil change service allows you to establish a record of services to keep up with proper maintenance.

Hissing Under the Hood

You may hear a distinct hiss when your car runs, but it is often more apparent when you turn it off. This hissing can be caused by leaking liquid spraying against the hot engine. This fluid could be the coolant that keeps your automobile at the proper temperature to function correctly.

A leaking hose or water pump failure should be addressed immediately. A lack of coolant can cause significant damage to your engine. It is always good practice to notice the space under your vehicle as you approach and look for wet spots that could indicate a coolant or oil leak. 

Unmaintained Auto Parts Can Lead to Accidents 

Improperly maintaining a car causes preventable accidents. If you are injured in an accident, the injury team of Mingo & Yankala, S.C. can help you recover compensation. A lawyer can help you reclaim your life, and if a mechanic or manufacturer is responsible for your car’s maintenance issues, they can hold them responsible.