All cars make noise – that’s inevitable. And most cars have a certain personality, a set of squeaks and rattles that you become accustomed to and stop hearing. But if you’re driving and notice a new noise you haven’t heard before which persists, then there’s a good probability there’s something wrong, or about to go wrong. Getting your car to a garage with qualified mechanics is usually advisable, or you may be facing a breakdown and a larger repair bill in the near future!

Noises You Should Be Alert To

1. A loud knocking sound from deep within the engine. This suggests there’s something seriously wrong. It’s often because one of the engine parts has worn down, like a rod bearing on the crankshaft. Alternatively, it might indicate a problem with a build-up of carbon deposits on valves or spark plugs as the fuel is being burnt. Or it could be that the upper cylinder head area needs more lubrication. There are a number of possible causes and just as many possible solutions, but it’s safest to get your engine checked out as soon as you can.
2. A vicious squealing sound when braking. This is not always a serious problem – it may just be a build-up of dirt and grime that needs cleaning off your braking system. However, it could be more serious. A squealing noise when applying brakes may indicate that the brake shoes or pads are dangerously worn down and need replacement. Alternately, the brake calipers may have come loose. If you think your brakes need attention, get them seen to as soon as possible, because a brake failure is always unsafe.
3. A variety of noises from the exhaust system can indicate trouble ahead. These might include a chugging noise, which is often a sign of a blockage somewhere. Rattling potentially means that your exhaust has come loose or is misaligned, while a loud roar not surprisingly is often the first sign of corrosion in your exhaust’s silencer. As well as being more expensive to fix in the long run if you leave exhaust problems unaddressed, you’re also likely to see your fuel economy suffer. And you may not see excess harmful emissions coming from your exhaust, but it’s not doing the environment any good!
4. Growling, roaring or humming as you drive along the road or change lanes could be many things, but two of the main culprits are worn tyres or wheel bearings that are past their best. Badly worn tyres are illegal as well as dangerous, while a wheel bearing that completely gives up the ghost will probably leave you stranded by the roadside with a car that just won’t shift anywhere. Get these types of noises checked out at your earliest convenience.

Take Preventative Action – It’s Cheaper Than Cure!

One of the best ways to avoid trouble is to make sure you’re alert when you’re driving to any new noises that emerge from your vehicle. The other is to maintain a regular schedule of having your car serviced, which can identify worn parts at an early stage. Either way, if you need help with car repairs, choose an experienced and reputable mechanic like the team at Wimborne Tyres & Auto Centre Ltd.