Cars rarely develop serious mechanical problems without giving some form of warning. In many cases, one of the first signs that your vehicle needs servicing or repairs is a new, unusual or increasingly loud noise.
A squeal when braking, a knocking sound from the engine or a humming noise from the tyres should not simply be ignored or covered up by turning up the radio. These sounds may indicate worn components, low fluid levels or mechanical problems that could become more expensive—and potentially less safe—the longer they are left.
At Brighton Tyre & Auto Centre, our qualified mechanics can inspect unusual vehicle noises, identify the cause and recommend the appropriate servicing or repairs.
A high-pitched squealing sound when braking is commonly associated with worn brake pads. Many brake pads are designed to produce a warning noise once they have worn down to a certain level. Other possible causes include:
A brief squeak that disappears may not always indicate a major problem. However, persistent squealing, reduced braking performance or a change in pedal feel should be inspected promptly.
Grinding is a more serious brake noise and should never be ignored. It may mean the brake pads have worn down completely, allowing metal components to make contact.
Continuing to drive with grinding brakes can damage the brake rotors and other parts of the braking system. It may also reduce your ability to stop safely.
Arrange a brake inspection as soon as possible if you hear grinding whenever you slow down or apply the brake pedal.
A knocking, tapping or ticking noise from under the bonnet can have several possible causes. These may include:
Engine oil lubricates and protects moving components. When the oil level is low or the oil has deteriorated, friction and wear may increase.
Check the oil level when it is safe to do so, but remember that simply topping up the oil may not address the underlying cause. A mechanic should investigate ongoing engine noises.
A squealing noise when starting the engine, accelerating or turning on the air conditioning may be related to a worn or slipping drive belt. Drive belts help operate components such as the alternator, water pump, power steering system and air-conditioning compressor, depending on the vehicle. The noise may be caused by:
A broken drive belt can leave you stranded and may cause the engine to overheat, so it is best to arrange an inspection before the problem becomes worse.
A rattling sound from underneath your vehicle may come from a loose exhaust component, heat shield, mounting bracket or suspension part. Exhaust rattles may be especially noticeable when:
While some rattles are caused by relatively minor loose components, others may indicate damage to the exhaust or suspension system. An inspection can locate the source before the component becomes detached or causes further damage.
Clunking or knocking when travelling over potholes, speed humps or uneven roads may indicate wear within the steering or suspension system. Possible causes include worn:
Suspension problems can affect handling, tyre wear and overall vehicle stability. You may also notice the vehicle bouncing excessively, pulling to one side or feeling less controlled around corners.
A humming or rumbling noise that becomes louder as your road speed increases may be related to the tyres or wheel bearings. Possible causes include:
The sound may change when turning if a wheel bearing is worn. Because tyre and bearing problems can affect vehicle safety, organise an inspection if the noise continues or becomes progressively louder.
A repeated clicking noise while turning—particularly during tight, low-speed turns—can be a sign of a worn CV joint.
CV joints transfer power to the wheels while allowing the suspension and steering to move. Damage commonly begins when the protective CV boot splits and allows grease to escape while dirt and moisture enter the joint.
Early inspection may prevent further drivetrain damage. Once a CV joint begins clicking consistently, replacement may be required.
A whining or groaning sound when turning the steering wheel may indicate a problem with a hydraulic power steering system. Possible causes include:
Some modern vehicles use electric power steering and will not have power steering fluid. In these vehicles, unusual steering noises or increased steering effort may indicate a different electrical or mechanical fault.
Do not ignore steering that suddenly feels heavy, jerky or inconsistent.
A hissing sound may be caused by escaping air, coolant, refrigerant or another pressurised fluid. Potential sources include:
Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Cooling systems operate under pressure, and hot coolant can cause serious burns. Switch off the engine safely and seek professional advice if the vehicle is overheating, steaming or losing coolant.
If your car suddenly sounds much louder than normal, there may be a leak or damaged component within the exhaust system. You may also notice:
Exhaust fumes can be hazardous, particularly if they are entering the passenger compartment. Arrange an inspection promptly and avoid driving the vehicle when fumes are noticeable inside.
A chirping, squeaking or rhythmic noise from a wheel can have several causes, including brake wear, tyre damage, a trapped object or a wheel-bearing problem. Pay attention to whether the sound:
This information can help your mechanic narrow down the source of the problem.
An unusual noise does not always mean your regular service interval has arrived, but it does mean your vehicle may need to be inspected.
Regular servicing allows your mechanic to check fluid levels, belts, brakes, tyres, steering, suspension and other important components before small problems develop into larger repairs. You should arrange an inspection even if your next scheduled service is still several months away when a noise is:
Intermittent noises can sometimes be difficult to reproduce in the workshop. Before your appointment, note when the sound occurs. Useful details include:
You may also record the sound on your phone when it is safe to do so. Never attempt to record a noise while driving if it will distract you from the road.
Do not wait for an unfamiliar squeak, rattle, knock or grinding sound to turn into a breakdown or more expensive repair.
Brighton Tyre & Auto Centre provides professional car servicing, diagnostic inspections and mechanical repairs for motorists in Brighton and surrounding areas, including Bridgewater, Pontville, Tea Tree, Honeywood, Herdsman Cove, Dromedary, Broadmarsh, Mangalore and Bagdad.
Our workshop can assist with brakes, steering and suspension, tyres, wheel alignment, engine concerns, auto electrical problems, diesel repairs and general vehicle servicing.
Contact Brighton Tyre & Auto Centre today to arrange an inspection and find out what your car is trying to tell you.
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