Common Car Noises Part 1

One of the many reasons our patrons bring their cars to The Tire Choice is because of a “funny noise.” Thumps, bangs, squeals – your vehicle has a language all its own that mechanics listen for to troubleshoot problems. In today’s post, we explore two common noises and the problems that cause them:

Engine Rattle - Also known as “knocking” or “pinging” can have a number of causes. The actual sound comes from the combustion chamber – which would mean that something is going wrong with the way the engine is combusting fuel. A typical cause of engine rattle comes from carbon buildup due to the age of the engine. You should also refer to your owner’s manual to see what octane level of gasoline you should be refueling with. If you refuel with the incorrect octane, it can cause engine rattle. In a worst case scenario, the engine rattle is being caused by overheating – which will need to be diagnosed and repaired to avoid engine damage.

Hissing - If you can hear hissing from under the hood, you’re probably dealing with a damaged or disconnected vacuum hose. When this hose malfunctions, you may notice that your vehicle has a rough idle and/or your check engine light comes on. If the hose become disconnected, you may be able to reattach it on your own. However, if the hose is cracked, cut, or damaged, it will need to be replaced entirely – something you should entrust to a mechanic.

Remember, if you want to vehicle to have a long life with lots of mileage, it’s important to pay attention and listen to the sounds your vehicle makes. Acting quickly can mean the difference between an inexpensive patch-up and a costly repair. If you hear your strange noises coming from your vehicle, bring to The Tire Choice for a check up. We perform most inspections for little or no charge. It can be a good investment to avoid expensive future repairs.