What Causes the Engine to Make a Clanking Sound?
2 Answers
Engine clanking sounds are caused by loose screws that stabilize the engine. Tightening the screws will resolve the issue. Common Engine Faults in Automobiles: When the engine shakes, it indicates incomplete combustion of the air-fuel mixture inside the cylinders. This incomplete combustion causes the engine to shake. The unburned mixture is expelled through the exhaust valves during the engine's exhaust process. An oxygen sensor is installed in the exhaust pipe to monitor the oxygen content in the expelled exhaust gases. The more completely the mixture burns in the cylinders, the less oxygen remains. Causes of Abnormal Engine Noises: Engine Mount Deterioration or Loosening: Engine mounts are designed to reduce vibrations and absorb shocks during engine operation. If the mounts become worn or loose, the engine will shake and produce abnormal noises. Excessive wear between pistons and cylinder walls can also cause abnormal noises. When the clearance between pistons and cylinder walls exceeds normal tolerances, the piston skirts may collide with the cylinder walls during engine operation, resulting in knocking sounds.
That day I was driving my kids to the park when suddenly the engine started making a loud clanging metal knocking sound. I immediately pulled over to check. Thinking back, it could have been excessive valve clearance, common in aging cars with unadjusted gaps; or it might have been engine knocking, where fuel in the combustion chamber ignites prematurely, creating pressure waves that hit the cylinder walls. Knocking often occurs due to using low-octane gasoline or having ignition timing set too early. Leaving it unfixed can lead to piston damage or even engine failure. That experience taught me: develop the habit of regular engine maintenance, including checking valves and spark plugs, and using high-quality oil and gasoline. Later, I had it checked by a mechanic who confirmed it was minor knocking, which disappeared after switching to premium gasoline. Safe driving relies on attentiveness – the car safeguards your family's lives, so don't delay addressing small issues. In short, unusual noises are warning signs – preventive maintenance beats major repairs after the fact.
