What to Do When There is Intermittent Abnormal Noise While Driving?
2 Answers
There are many reasons for abnormal noise while driving. Once abnormal noise occurs while driving, it is essential to promptly visit a professional automotive after-sales service center for inspection. Below is relevant information regarding checking for abnormal noise in cars: Check the valve chamber: If the car has not been used for some time, the engine oil will drain back to the oil pan, resulting in less oil in the valve chamber. Due to the lack of oil for sealing and lubrication, a hissing sound can be heard from the bottom of the car when it is first started, which is normal. Check the engine belt: Try pinching the drive belt with your fingers and twisting it; the twist angle should be less than 90 degrees. If the engine belt is too dirty, causing abnormal noise, cleaning it with water or applying some lubricant can eliminate the noise. Check the engine mount bolts: Loose engine mount bolts can lead to improper engine support installation.
I've driven quite a few cars and have plenty of experience with this kind of intermittent abnormal noise. It could be small stones stuck in the tire treads or uneven wear on the brake pads causing squeaking, which is relatively easy to identify. Once, the noise was particularly noticeable during a high-speed turn, and upon inspection, it turned out to be a loose suspension arm bolt—tightening it promptly solved the issue. My advice is to find a safe place to stop and turn off the engine, then carefully listen for the source or gently shake the tire to locate it. Don't push through, especially at high speeds, to avoid worsening potential bearing issues. Safety comes first, and addressing the problem early can save money. During regular maintenance, pay extra attention to the chassis and lubrication points to minimize unusual noises. DIY checks are convenient, but if the issue persists too frequently, it's best to have it handled by a professional shop.
