Why is there a noise when starting the car after it has been parked for a long time?
2 Answers
When a vehicle is started after being parked for an extended period, it is considered a cold start. The reasons for noise when starting the car after it has been parked for a long time are as follows: Reason 1: The brake disc and brake pads may produce abnormal noise due to rust bonding them together, which is a normal phenomenon. If the car is left for several days, especially in humid weather, moisture on the brake disc and brake pads can cause rust, leading them to stick together. Reason 2: Excessive carbon deposits in components such as the throttle valve, intake tract, and fuel injectors can result in incomplete combustion, causing the mixture to enter the exhaust pipe and produce a popping sound. Reason 3: Disordered ignition timing can cause unburned gasoline to reach the exhaust pipe before igniting, resulting in the sound of gasoline atomizing and burning inside the exhaust pipe.
It's quite common to hear noises when starting a car that's been parked for a long time, and the reasons can vary. The most common cause is rusted brake pads. When a car sits idle for an extended period, moisture can cause the brake discs to rust, resulting in grinding noises upon starting. Aging suspension components, such as shock absorbers or springs, can also produce creaking sounds, especially in older vehicles or those with a history of rough roads. Insufficient lubrication at the chassis connection points can lead to dry friction as well. If the noise disappears after a few minutes of driving, it's likely due to rust. However, if the sound persists or is sharp and piercing, it could indicate serious issues like loose belts, deformed tires, or bearing damage, which pose safety risks. I've seen car owners ignore minor noises only to face costly repairs later, so it's advisable to check the brakes and chassis before driving a car that's been parked for a while. Regularly driving the car can help keep the components active. In humid environments, these issues are more likely to occur. To prevent rust, slightly releasing the handbrake when parking and applying professional lubricant to the joints during maintenance can extend the lifespan.
