What Causes Abnormal Noises When Starting a Car?
2 Answers
The reasons for abnormal noises when starting a car include: 1. Use of low-quality or overly hard brake pads; 2. Presence of foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs; 3. Severe wear of brake discs and brake pads; 4. Rust on brake discs and brake pads causing abnormal noises; 5. Cold start. Solutions: 1. Choose high-quality brake pads for replacement; 2. Check for foreign objects between the brake pads and brake discs and clean them regularly; 3. Both brake pads and brake discs are consumables. To ensure normal vehicle operation, they should be replaced within the recommended cycle; 4. Apply butter or special lubricant at the connection between the brake pads and brake calipers; 5. During a cold start, rubber parts in the suspension system are harder, and the surfaces of the brake discs and brake pads may change, leading to abnormal noises. The situation will improve once the car warms up.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and have encountered startup noises several times. The most common issue is with the starter motor—worn-out gears make a 'clicking' sound, as if something is stuck. Belt slippage is another culprit, especially with old, loose, or cracked belts, producing a sharp, screeching noise during startup. Insufficient battery power can also cause startup difficulties, making the motor struggle and emit a low groaning sound. A loose timing chain may create abnormal noises too; if the chain is worn, you might feel a 'chain tugging' sensation at startup. I remember last time a belt issue nearly damaged other components, but I got it checked and replaced in time—cost me just 200 bucks. These sounds can be alarming, but early intervention prevents serious damage. I recommend regular maintenance to monitor your car's condition.
