Cars make all kinds of noises. Some are completely normal, while others can be a key indicator of a bigger problem. At Paul Campanella’s Auto & Tire Center and Pike Creek Automotive, our ASE Certified Mechanics can help you quickly diagnose the strange sounds you have noticed coming from your vehicle!
Our auto repair experts in Wilmington, DE have put together a list of some of the most common sounds customers visit us for. Familiarize yourself with these noises and what they could mean so you know when to bring your car, truck, SUV, minivan or hybrid in for service.
6 Car Noises to Keep an Ear Out For:
1. You hear a high-pitched squeal when accelerating: If you notice a loud squeal when accelerating, especially if your car is just warming up, it could be that you have a loose or worn fan belt. Usually if your fan belts are worn, it could mean your timing belt needs replaced as well. It’s also more cost-efficient to replace them both at one time, rather than separately.
2. Your tires are making a thudding noise: If you notice your tires are making a thudding noise while you’re driving, even on smooth roads, (and you don’t have a flat!) it could be that the air pressure in your tires is low, and uneven. It also could be a sign that your alignment is off. If your tires aren’t properly aligned, it can cause poor gas mileage, and shorten your tires lifespan. The thudding noise is usually paired with a bumpier ride, so you might also notice that your car isn’t driving as smooth as it used to.
3. Your brakes are make a metallic scraping noise : If you hear this can mean the lining of your brakes or your brake pads are worn, and need to be replaced. Never put off brake repair. As one of your most important safety features of your vehicle, it’s important that they are always performing correctly and efficiently. This sound is to be considered a warning created by the manufacture. It’s not uncommon to hear this sound when you apply the breaks and sometimes when the breaks are not applied. If the squeek is coming from the tires, get them fixed.
4. A hissing noise while idle: This is usually a sign that one of your hoses is cracked or has come loose. You should have your vehicle serviced immediately if you notice this noise accompanied by steam from under your hood and/or the heat of your engine greatly rising.
5. A whining noise from the front of your car: A steady whine from the front of your car could be caused your power steering fluid being low. A full tune up service with the auto repair technicians at either of Paul Campanella’s two car repair shops in Wilmington, DE can check and replenish all of your vehicle’s fluids.
At Paul Campanella’s, our team of friendly, expert mechanics is ready and able to help with any and all of the funky sounds that are coming from your car. Stop by the shop, give us a call, or schedule an appointment online today and we’ll help your car hit the right note!
