What Causes Abnormal Noises When Driving a Car?
3 Answers
Abnormal noises while driving a car can be caused by the following reasons: 1. Noise on rough roads. Cause: Problems with the shock absorber. 2. Rhythmic noise during driving. Cause: Friction sound due to the brake pads being too close to the brake disc. 3. Unnoticeable noise at low speeds but uniform abnormal noise at high speeds. Cause: This phenomenon occurs when a wheel bearing is damaged. 4. Rhythmic noise at low speeds, which diminishes at high speeds. Cause: Inaccurate four-wheel alignment, leading to significant tire wear during long-distance driving, resulting in uneven tire wear and abnormal noise.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered quite a few abnormal noise issues. The most common ones are in the chassis area - aging shock absorbers creak, loose steering knuckle balls click when turning, and tires with stuck pebbles make constant tapping sounds. The engine compartment also needs attention - loose belts squeal, and broken exhaust hangers sound like banging on an iron bucket. When brake pads wear to their limit, that metal scraping noise is particularly harsh. I remember on my last long-distance trip, the rear wheel bearings were humming; I thought it was a tire issue, but upon disassembly, I found the bearings had disintegrated. Such problems are best not delayed. During maintenance, have the mechanic tighten all the chassis screws and check the rubber bushings - replace them if they're aged to prevent the noises from worsening.
Last time I was driving on the highway, I suddenly heard a humming noise that became more noticeable when accelerating. After inspection, it turned out to be a faulty left front wheel bearing. Now whenever I hear any abnormal sounds, I immediately pull over and roll down the window to locate the direction: if the noise comes from the front, it might be a loose belt or cracked engine mount bushings; sounds from the rear are likely due to a loose exhaust pipe or rear suspension issues; a clunking noise when going over speed bumps usually indicates a bad lower control arm ball joint. Daily usage also requires attention – for example, a creaking sound when turning the steering wheel to full lock comes from the power steering pump, and unfixed items in the trunk can amplify impact noises. I remember once forgetting to remove the jack from the trunk – the loud banging noise during bumps almost scared me.
