Why is the engine noise louder after maintenance?
4 Answers
Reasons for louder engine noise after maintenance: The old engine oil was not completely drained during the oil change, or the viscosity of the new oil added is too low. Solutions for louder engine noise after maintenance: 1. Check the oil level—if the oil is low, simply add more oil; 2. If the oil level is adequate, the issue may be due to the oil's viscosity being too low, in which case you should switch to a higher viscosity oil. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is referred to as the 'lifeblood' of the engine. It serves multiple functions within the engine, including lubrication, cleaning, sealing, heat dissipation, cushioning, and rust prevention. Without engine oil, the engine cannot operate properly.
Right after the maintenance, I also felt that the engine noise became louder, which was quite concerning. It might be because I didn’t pay attention to whether the correct type of engine oil was used. Some cars are sensitive to specific oils—if the viscosity doesn’t match or if too much was added, it can cause increased noise. Another common reason is that the air filter wasn’t installed properly or is loose. During maintenance, it might not have been secured firmly, leading to restricted airflow or leaks. I remember last time when I changed the oil filter, the sealing ring wasn’t properly fitted, and after a few days, the noise became louder. I suggest first checking whether the oil level is in the middle of the dipstick, then inspect the filter’s position. If the noise persists, it’s best to take it back to the repair shop for a recheck. After all, new cars or recently serviced vehicles need some time to break in—don’t jump to conclusions too quickly. Paying attention to the oil brand and maintenance frequency in daily use can help avoid similar issues.
As a friend who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe that increased engine noise after maintenance is mostly caused by mechanical reasons. For example, air bubbles not fully expelled by the oil pump or the new oil being too thick can lead to insufficient lubrication and abnormal noises. It could also be due to a loosened component during maintenance, such as a pulley or a fan connection not being tightened properly. The exhaust system might have been accidentally bumped, causing changes in backpressure. I recommend first checking the simplest areas: whether the oil is suitable and adequately filled, and if the air filter is installed correctly. These small details are easily overlooked. If everything seems normal, try driving a few dozen kilometers to let the engine adapt to the new oil. If the issue persists, inspect the spark plugs or ignition system for any interference. For safety, don’t ignore such changes in sound—have a professional technician diagnose it as soon as possible.
In my experience, increased noise after maintenance is usually due to oil issues or incorrect part installation. Check if the oil level is too high or too low, as using new oil that doesn't meet the vehicle's requirements can cause noise. Improper installation of the air filter or oil filter may also be the culprit. Additionally, loose screws during maintenance can create vibration noises. It's advisable to immediately review these points. If the noise persists, professional testing is required. Preventive maintenance is crucial.
