What Causes a Car to Make Noise Immediately Upon Starting?

[SanAshlyn]

The reasons why a car makes noise immediately upon starting are: 1. Insufficient body rigidity causing deformation during driving, leading to friction or vibration between the doors and the frame; 2. Belt slippage causing damage to the generator, water pump, or power steering pump bearings; 3. Worn transmission bearings or gears; 4. Deformed, bulging, severely worn tread, or insufficient tire pressure. Daily precautions for car use include: 1. Warm up the engine before starting; 2. Check the oil level, coolant level, power steering fluid level, and brake fluid level to ensure they are adequate; 3. Avoid abrupt braking and acceleration to prevent excessive wear on brake pads; 4. Park the car properly when not in use; 5. Avoid prolonged use of electrical devices when the engine is off.

[LaBrianna]

Having run an auto repair shop for many years, I've encountered numerous cases of abnormal noises during vehicle startup. The primary culprit is often a faulty starter—either worn internal gears or a stuck solenoid switch, causing clunking or screeching sounds during cranking, especially prevalent in older vehicles. Another frequent cause is loose belts, such as aged or slackened AC or fan belts that produce squealing noises when slipping. Continued driving under these conditions accelerates wear and may lead to belt breakage. Occasionally, seized fans or internal engine wear can also generate noises. Immediate inspection of belt tension and starter condition is advised. Simple fixes like tightening belts or cleaning connection plugs can be attempted DIY, but complex issues require professional disassembly and repair. Delaying repairs risks burning out additional components, resulting in costlier repairs and compromised driving safety.

[DelEden]

I remember that time when my car made a squealing noise upon starting, which scared me into thinking it was about to break down. It turned out to be the power steering pump belt slipping due to the rubber aging and loosening, making it dangerous even at high speeds. Another possible cause is the starter gear not engaging tightly, producing a grinding noise as soon as it turns, especially in older cars with weak batteries. Regular maintenance should include checking the belt replacement cycle, and it's recommended to inspect it every two to three years or every 50,000 kilometers. Starting noises not only affect your driving mood but can also lead to other system issues, such as engine overheating. Getting it checked early at a professional shop is the most worry-free approach. Don't underestimate it—safety comes first, or you might end up stranded on the road with bigger troubles.

[LaIsaac]

As a veteran driver with over ten years of experience, immediate noise upon starting is usually caused by starter issues or belt slippage. The former produces a gear-wearing sound, while the latter results in a squeaking noise due to aging. A weak battery can also indirectly cause noise. Get it checked immediately to prevent further damage and avoid delays in vehicle usage.