What Causes Engine Whining Noise?
2 Answers
The causes of engine whining noise can be divided into two situations: For automatic transmission models, it may be caused by the CVT transmission; If the abnormal noise is confirmed to come from the engine after the vehicle is warmed up, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer to avoid safety accidents. Below are detailed solutions: Whining noise when accelerating: The whining noise during acceleration may originate from the tube connecting the intake grille to the air filter, which is the thickest plastic tube in the engine compartment. Open the engine hood to clearly see it. The middle section of the tube has corrugations. Press the corrugated part with your hand to see if the noise weakens or disappears. If it does, try to secure it firmly with tape. Internal mechanical parts of the engine: If it's the external belt of the engine, you can pour water on the belt while the car is parked in P gear and accelerating. If the whining noise disappears, it means the belt is loose or of poor quality. If the noise persists after pouring water, it indicates an internal engine issue. Generally, there are two types of internal engine whining: one is caused by poor machining precision of the timing chain in the timing system, and the other is due to significant fitting tolerances between the valve rocker arm and hydraulic tappet in the valve train. It is recommended to report to the 4S shop during the warranty period and have the engine disassembled for inspection.
I've experienced engine squealing quite a few times, usually due to issues with the belt system. The most common causes are aging or loose alternator belts or AC belts, which slip at high RPMs and produce that terrifying high-pitched screech. Air intake system leaks can also create similar whistling noises as air rushes through cracks. Once my car suddenly started squealing on the highway, and inspection revealed a nearly broken belt that could have caused an accident. Never ignore these sounds - pull over immediately to check under the hood or visit a repair shop. Professionals can diagnose it quickly with tools, and belt replacements typically cost just a few dozen dollars. Regular maintenance should include checking belts for cracks and proper tension - prevention is always better than cure.