What causes the abnormal noise when the car just starts moving?

[AlanaMarie]

When the car just starts moving, there is an abnormal noise. The following reasons can summarize this phenomenon: 1. Long engine service life: Some cars have engines that have been used for too long, and each time they start, the idle speed is high, resulting in this abnormal noise. 2. The engine oil used during car maintenance is also a reason: Expensive engine oil is not necessarily good; it must be suitable for your car. Unsuitable engine oil can cause certain abnormal noises. 3. Belt wear: Cars with long service lives need belt replacements, and belt wear can also produce this sound.

[DeDavid]

My old car makes creaking noises from the chassis during cold starts, and I found out it's due to cracked and aged control arm bushings. Rubber components harden and become brittle over time, causing friction sounds like dry bearings when the wheels first bear load. I recommend focusing inspections on suspension linkage joints and ball joints, especially during rainy seasons or cold weather—these issues become particularly noticeable. Placing a cardboard under the chassis when parked can help spot oil leaks by checking for stains the next day. If the noise worsens during turns, it’s likely the steering tie rod dust boot is torn—replace it promptly to prevent grit from damaging the universal joint.

[Amir]

Last time my car made a clicking noise as soon as it started moving, and the mechanic said it was the brake pads sticking to the caliper. When the metal shims and brake discs get damp or slightly rust after washing the car, they can produce a sharp friction sound at the moment of starting. Additionally, if the exhaust pipe gasket ages and loosens, the vibration from the engine ignition can transmit through the gaps, creating a metallic knocking sound that disappears once the car warms up. It's especially important for new car owners to distinguish between the normal ABS self-check sound and abnormal noise from faults. The former sounds like a small motor running for a few seconds, while the latter is a persistent mechanical noise that doesn't go away.

[JoannaMarie]

Don't panic if you hear gurgling noises from the chassis when starting the car in the morning. Many of these sounds come from thermal expansion in the exhaust system. Particularly with catalytic converters equipped with heat-insulating aluminum shields, uneven contraction of components when cold can cause mutual friction during initial movement. Additionally, worn engine mounts can directly transmit engine vibrations to the body frame, producing low-frequency humming noises at low speeds. It's recommended to warm up the car for five minutes before driving. If the noise increases after warming up, be cautious. For turbocharged vehicles, also check if the wastegate actuator linkage is loose.

[Lewis]

My SUV makes a clicking sound when turning at low speeds, and the issue was traced to worn CV joints. The grease seal inside the CV boot is cracked, causing grease leakage, and the metal balls inside create a dry friction noise. In severe cases, it can even affect power transmission. Pay attention to the steering system as well, especially in vehicles with hydraulic power steering—a whining noise may indicate low power steering fluid. Beginners can try closing the windows to locate the sound: if it comes from under the steering wheel, check the steering column; if it's under the seat, inspect the driveshaft; if there's vibration underfoot, examine the exhaust system.

[VanVivian]

The rattling noise during the first few meters after starting was traced back to loose screws on the engine skid plate after three weeks of investigation. Such vibration-induced noises from cover components are often overlooked, especially in vehicles with aftermarket metal skid plates. Deformed brake disc positioning spring clips or detached anti-noise shims can also cause high-frequency tremolo sounds. As a reminder to owners of long-parked vehicles: if the parking brake pads stick and cause a loud clunk when starting, don't force it - shifting into reverse and gently pressing the accelerator can release the jam. Of course, worn universal joints on the driveshaft will produce regular clicking sounds, which occur regardless of road conditions and persist even at constant speeds.