Why Does a New Car Make a Clicking Noise When Starting?
2 Answers
If a new car makes a clicking noise when starting, it could be due to clutch failure, transmission failure, lower control arm failure, connecting rod bearing failure, or inner CV joint wear. The owner should promptly visit a local 4S shop or professional repair shop for inspection and repair. Types of car noises: 1. Normal noises: These include normal vibration sounds from various system components (such as engine surface noise), gear impact sounds during shifting, intake and exhaust sounds from gas-operated systems, and gear meshing noises. 2. Abnormal noises: Abnormal noises can be categorized into minor noises, moderate noises, and severe noises based on their impact on the car's performance. Minor noises, such as sparking sounds from high-voltage electricity leakage or slight looseness in rolling bearings, are less concerning. Severe noises, such as loud sounds from crankshaft bearings or connecting rod bearings accompanied by a drop in oil pressure, significant gear impact sounds in the transmission, or strong vibrations from the differential, can seriously affect the car and may cause or have already caused severe damage to components.
Last time I helped a friend inspect a new car, I encountered this issue as well. The clunking sound mostly comes from the suspension system. During transportation, suspension components are secured, and some bushings might still be tight when the car is first driven. The initial torque release from the engine causes slight frame deformation, shifting the stress points on the suspension, which can lead to brief metallic noises at the joints. Additionally, the driveshaft universal joints are tightly assembled at the factory, and such sounds are common during the break-in period. It's recommended to drive for 500 km first and observe. If there are still noticeable metallic clunking sounds after 1,000 km, check the torque of the chassis bolts and the lower arm bushings. Remember to avoid speed bumps during testing—tilting over bumps makes the sound most apparent.
