What Causes Excessive Car Noise?
3 Answers
Reasons for excessive car noise: 1. Aging or loosening of engine mounts, which are rubber blocks between the engine and the frame. When these mounts age or loosen, the engine will vibrate, and the faster the speed, the louder the vibration noise. Tightening or replacing the engine mounts is necessary; 2. If the engine oil viscosity does not match the engine, it is easy to produce carbon deposits, leading to increased engine noise; 3. Engine misfire, mainly referring to one or more cylinders not working properly, usually manifested by obvious intermittent exhaust flow and severe shaking of the exhaust pipe, with a clear "thumping" or "popping" sound from the engine.
With decades of experience in auto repair, I've encountered countless cases of excessive car noise, most of which stem from engine issues. A metallic knocking sound often indicates severe internal wear or insufficient oil; a buzzing noise usually points to an exhaust system leak, such as a broken muffler or rusted holes. Uneven tire wear or low pressure increases road noise at high speeds; aging suspension components like shock absorbers can produce loud clunks over bumps. Worn wheel bearings generate a continuous rumbling sound, especially noticeable when turning. These noises aren't just annoying—they waste fuel, reduce efficiency, and prolonged neglect may lead to major repairs or safety hazards. I recommend using a stethoscope to locate the source and promptly visiting a professional shop for proper diagnosis.
My old car was making a lot of noise recently. At first, I thought it was due to the newly paved rough road surface, but it still made noise after changing the tires. Later, I found out that the exhaust joint was rusted and loose, and after plugging the hole, it became much quieter. The engine made a rattling sound during cold starts, and after checking, it turned out to be due to the aging and loosening of the belt, which was fixed by replacing it with a new one. When the suspension was broken, it sounded like banging pots when going over bumps. The repair wasn’t cheap, but it was worth it. Driving with hard acceleration or sudden braking also amplified the noise, so now I’ve gotten into the habit of gently pressing the throttle to maintain the engine. As the car gets older, it requires more careful inspection. Excessive noise not only affects your mood but also impacts fuel consumption.
