What Causes the Ticking Sound After Turning Off the Car?

[VonMarcus]

There are several reasons for abnormal sounds after the car is turned off, such as brake system malfunctions. Below are detailed explanations: Disc Brake Malfunction: When driving at low speeds on a flat road, irregular intermittent noises may occur near the wheel axle. The noise slightly intensifies as speed increases but remains unchanged during uphill, downhill, or turning. On uneven roads, the noise becomes more pronounced, but pressing the brake pedal may reduce or eliminate the sound. During a stationary inspection, rotating the wheel back and forth can reveal the noise. This is often due to damage, deformation, or detachment of the brake pad support plate, damping spring plate, or guide plate in the disc brake system, causing increased gaps between components and resulting in collision sounds. Repairing deformed parts or replacing detached components at a service station is recommended. Front Suspension Ball Joint Malfunction: When driving at low gear on bumpy roads, continuous noises may emanate from the front axle, worsening with poorer road conditions or higher speeds. Shaking the front of the car vigorously while stationary can reproduce the noise. On smooth roads, irregular intermittent noises resembling metal cracking may occur. This is caused by excessive wear in the ball joint and socket gap. Since the ball joint socket is a sealed, non-serviceable component, replacement at a service station is necessary. Front Wheel Shock Absorber Malfunction: On flat roads, faint abnormal noises may be heard from the front of the car, intensifying during sharp turns. Pressing down on the front of the car while stationary and causing it to rebound can produce the noise, with louder sounds under greater pressure. The vehicle may also feel stiff and lack elasticity. This typically results from driving on rough roads with poor maintenance, leading to shock absorber oil leakage and damage. The severity of damage determines whether replacement is needed at a service station.