What Are the Causes of Abnormal Noise During Car Ignition?
3 Answers
The causes of abnormal noise during car ignition are: 1. Engine belt slipping; 2. Severe wear of the starter and flywheel; 3. Failure of the valve train; 4. Excessive clearance between the hydraulic system and valves inside the engine cylinder head; 5. Timing chain failure; 6. Aging of the drive belt; 7. Three-way catalytic converter failure; 8. Engine temperature being too low. The correct method for starting a car is: 1. Insert the key and hold it in the 'lock' position for about 2 seconds; 2. Turn to the 'on' position and wait for about 5 seconds for the car computer to perform a self-check; 3. Turn the key to the 'start' position to ignite, and release the key after starting; 4. Warm up the car in place for about 30 to 60 seconds; 5. Press the brake, shift to 'D' gear, then release the handbrake and foot brake to start moving.
I've also experienced strange noises during ignition before, which sounded like clattering and was quite scary. The most common issue is wear on the starter gear—when the gears don't mesh properly, it causes noise. If it's a squeaking sound, it might be due to an old or loose belt with insufficient tension. If the battery is too low, the starter won't turn properly and can also make noise. If the noise is heavier, it could be due to a bad bearing in the engine or worn piston rings. Ignoring these issues is risky—failing to start the car is the least of your worries; you might end up stranded or even damage the engine. Try to locate the source of the noise yourself. If it's near the front of the engine, it's likely a starter problem. It's best to visit a repair shop promptly to avoid costly repairs later. Regular maintenance of the battery and belts can help prevent these issues.
Don't ignore abnormal ignition noises, safety first. If the starter gear has issues, it may produce a clicking sound; squeaky belts are often caused by loose tensioners or belts; worn internal engine components like faulty bearings can create rattling noises. These sounds indicate aging or faulty parts, possibly due to excessive power consumption or uneven pressure. Ignoring them can lead to more trouble, such as stalling on highways. Especially in cold weather when the battery is weak, the noises become more noticeable. Before driving, simply listen to the sound patterns: deep sounds often indicate internal problems, while sharp sounds usually point to external issues. Repair early to avoid spending more on additional parts. Develop a habit of regularly checking electrical circuits and mechanical components for peace of mind and safety.