What Causes the Rustling Sound When Pressing the Accelerator?
3 Answers
Possible reasons for the rustling sound when pressing the accelerator are: 1. Engine abnormal noise - Symptom description: There can be various possibilities for abnormal noises in the engine compartment. Most people identify it as engine compartment noise based on the sound source, usually presenting as a metallic screeching or whistling noise; 2. Transmission abnormal noise - Symptom description: If there's a rustling sound from the transmission while driving, which disappears when pressing the clutch or accelerator, and a whistling-like sound during gear shifting; 3. Door abnormal noise - Symptom description: Some parts of the body may produce slight abnormal noises when accelerating or braking, which are not loud and do not affect normal driving.
Hearing a rustling sound when stepping on the accelerator is quite common, possibly caused by a vacuum hose leak. Those rubber hoses aging or not being tightly connected can allow excess air to leak in, creating strange noises when the engine runs. Another common cause is issues with the belt system, such as a worn alternator belt or a faulty tensioner pulley, which produces a rustling sound when it rubs. I've encountered cases where the intake manifold was cracked or the throttle body was dirty—excessive dust buildup can disrupt airflow. If the noise keeps getting louder while driving, it might also lead to poor acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and long-term engine damage. So, I recommend checking hose connections and belt conditions early. Visually inspect for cracks yourself, and if unsure, consult a mechanic for diagnosis—don’t wait until it becomes a major issue. Regular maintenance, like replacing the air filter, can also help prevent such noises.
Last time I was driving, I encountered this rustling noise, especially noticeable when stepping on the accelerator, particularly when accelerating on a slope. I asked a friend and found out that it's likely due to a loose or slipping belt, where hardened rubber causes friction noise. It could also be an issue with the air flow sensor, where dust blocks the sensing head, causing the computer to misjudge the air intake. I found the noise quite annoying and was worried about breaking down halfway. Later, I went to a repair shop, and they diagnosed it as a vacuum tube leak. Replacing a small tube made a big difference. Everyone should pay attention to such noises and not ignore them, as they might indicate increased engine load, especially during long drives. You can first check the belt tension or listen for the noise location, but it's best to consult a professional.
