Why is there abnormal noise when driving?
3 Answers
Driving with abnormal noise can be caused by the following reasons: 1. The engine temperature is too low. When the car is cold-started, the engine temperature is too low for it to work properly, which is a normal phenomenon. Just wait a while until the engine temperature rises to a normal level. 2. The car's three-way catalytic converter expands due to heat. If there is abnormal noise when the car is just started, but it disappears after a while, it is caused by the expansion of the three-way catalytic converter due to heat, which is also a normal phenomenon and does not need attention. 3. Transmission failure. The internal gears of the transmission rub against each other, causing abnormal noise. This situation is more complicated and requires professionals at a repair shop or 4S store to inspect it. 4. Wear of the engine belt or chain. Wear of the engine belt or chain causes friction when the vehicle is started or idling, resulting in abnormal noise. For safety reasons, it is recommended to directly replace the engine belt or chain.
Car noises are quite common, and I've encountered them several times over the years of driving. Different sounds indicate different issues. For example, a squeaking noise when turning is mostly due to suspension component problems, such as aging shock absorbers or loose suspension arms. A humming sound during acceleration might be caused by a loose belt or worn bearings, as these parts are prone to fatigue over time. Squealing during braking usually means the brake pads are worn thin and need replacement, otherwise, it could affect braking distance. Occasionally, a clicking sound from the car's chassis might be due to a loose small part or a stone stuck in it. It's best to have it checked at a professional auto repair shop as soon as possible—they can pinpoint the issue just by listening with tools. Don't wait until it becomes a bigger problem affecting safety; I learned this the hard way and now regularly inspect my suspension system. As a preventive measure, check key components during each maintenance session and give the tires a quick tap to listen for unusual sounds before long trips.
Last time I drove, I kept hearing a squeaking sound from the back seat, which made me quite nervous, so I did some checks myself. Starting with the simple stuff, I checked if the tires had any bulges or trapped stones, as sometimes they can cause noise when rubbing against the road. Then, I listened to the engine compartment—if there's a squealing sound from the belt at idle, the tensioner pulley might be the issue. The braking system is another key area; if the noise increases when lightly applying the brakes, it's likely that the brake discs or pads are worn and need replacement. If the issue still isn't clear, try noting the location and timing of the noise, such as whether it only happens when turning or on bumpy roads, as this can help the mechanic diagnose the problem. Personally, I recommend not delaying—safety first. If the noise is coming from drivetrain components, continuing to drive could cause more damage. It's best to find a reliable repair shop for a comprehensive check. Also, pay attention to any changes in sound while driving, and during regular oil changes, ask the mechanic to check for the cause of any unusual noises.
