What to Do When the Car Makes Abnormal Noises During Startup?
2 Answers
When a car makes abnormal noises during startup, it is necessary to inspect multiple components of the car one by one. Here is relevant information on checking for abnormal car noises: Checking the Valve Chamber: If the car has not been used for a while, the engine oil will return to the oil pan, and the valve chamber will have less oil. Due to the lack of oil for sealing and lubrication in the valve chamber, a hissing sound may be heard from the bottom of the car when it is first started. This situation is normal. Checking the Engine Belt: You can try pinching the drive belt with your fingers and twisting it, ensuring the twist angle is below 90 degrees. If the engine belt is too dirty, causing abnormal noises, cleaning it with water or applying some lubricant can eliminate the noise. Checking the Engine Mount Bolts: Loose engine mount bolts can lead to improper engine support installation. 4. Checking the Engine Compartment: There may be foreign objects blocking the engine compartment.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and whenever I encounter strange noises during startup, my first instinct is to check if the belt is loose or cracked, as that's a common issue. Especially when starting the engine in cold weather, the rubber material hardens and is more prone to making noises. If the noise is a squeaking or rattling sound, it's usually caused by an aging engine fan belt—you can check for looseness yourself by giving it a tug. However, if the sound resembles metal grinding or clashing, be cautious as it could indicate bearing or timing chain issues, which shouldn’t be ignored. My advice is to avoid driving immediately; instead, find a safe spot to turn off the engine and restart it to listen for the noise again. If it persists, head to a professional repair shop right away. Never attempt DIY fixes haphazardly, as this could worsen the problem. Cultivate the habit of pre-startup checks, such as ensuring there are no foreign objects stuck under the hood, to prevent many potential issues. Remember, safety comes first when driving—unusual noises aren’t just annoying; they could be early warning signs of serious engine problems. Addressing them early saves money and ensures peace of mind.
