What to do if there is a sound of metal scraping the ground when the car is running?
2 Answers
Prompt inspection and repair are necessary. Below are the reasons for abnormal noises in cars and their solutions: 1. Brake noise: The brake is a very important part of the car and also a frequently used component. Over time, various issues may arise, leading to different sounds. Common causes of such noises include: excessive iron content in the brake pads, worn-out brake pads reaching their limit, or foreign objects on the brake disc. Solution: The owner can replace the brake pads with new ones. 2. Tire noise: Tires are the most severely worn part during driving. Over time, tires may produce abnormal noises, and the frequency of these noises increases with the car's speed. Generally, when the owner hears such sounds, it indicates a problem with the car's tires. Solution: The owner should stop and carefully inspect the tires, trying to remove any foreign objects. Otherwise, prolonged driving with such issues can cause severe wear to the tires. 3. Bearing noise: During driving, due to road conditions and other factors, pressure bearings often crack or get damaged, leading to a "clunking" sound from the front when driving on bumpy roads. In severe cases, this can cause wheel misalignment. Aging bearings can also produce abnormal noises. If a "humming" sound is heard while driving, it usually indicates a problem with the bearings, and the noise tends to worsen as the car's speed increases. Solution: The owner should promptly visit a nearby repair shop for maintenance and replace the wheel hub bearings in time.
A few days ago, my car had a similar issue—it made a scary metal-scraping sound while driving, as if something was dragging under the chassis. My advice is to avoid continuing at high speed, as it could damage the undercarriage or tires. Find a safe spot to pull over, turn off the engine, engage the handbrake, and walk around the car to inspect underneath. Look for anything loose, like a detached exhaust pipe, a slipped plastic underguard, or an unsecured mudguard. If you can, gently push or wiggle these parts—sometimes tightening a screw can fix minor issues. However, most cases involve wiring or fuel lines, which are risky to DIY. It’s best to visit a repair shop for a full inspection—they’ll spot the problem easily with a lift. Ignoring it can worsen the noise or even lead to a breakdown, so spending a little on repairs now saves bigger trouble later.
