Every car has a way of talking to you—it hums, purrs, and sometimes, it makes noises that just don’t sound right. When that happens, it’s your vehicle’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s up!” Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
Brian Bowersock, aka the Auto Man, shared expert insights on vehicle noises you should never ignore.
That Grinding or Roaring Sound While Driving
Ever hear a deep, growling noise coming from your wheels? That could mean a wheel bearing is wearing out. These little components keep your wheels spinning smoothly, but when they start to fail, they create friction—and friction isn’t your friend.
If left unchecked, a bad wheel bearing can get so bad that your wheel could actually come loose. That’s not just a repair issue — it’s a serious safety hazard. If your car is growling at you, get it checked ASAP.
Brakes That Sound Like They’re Screaming for Help
Brakes should be smooth and silent (aside from a little squeak here and there). But if you hear a nasty grinding sound when you step on the pedal, your brake pads might be completely worn down. At this point, metal is scraping against metal, and that’s bad news for your rotors. The longer you wait, the more damage you’ll do—and the more money you’ll spend fixing it.
Brakes aren’t just about comfort; they’re about keeping you (and everyone else on the road) safe.
A Ticking or Knocking Engine
Engines aren’t supposed to tick like a clock. If you hear a ticking or knocking sound under the hood, it could mean something’s going on with your timing chain, lifters, or even the internal bearings.
These parts keep your engine running in perfect sync, and when they start to wear out, your engine struggles. Ignoring engine noises can turn a small fix into an engine rebuild — so don’t wait on this one.
An Exhaust That Sounds Like a Rocket Ship
If your car suddenly sounds way louder than usual, your exhaust system might have a leak or a broken part. This can mess with your fuel efficiency, cause performance issues, and, worst of all, allow dangerous fumes to seep into your car.
Exhaust problems can affect your health and your wallet, so if your car’s exhaust note changes dramatically, have a mechanic take a look.
Listen to Your Car — It’s Talking to You
Your car isn’t just making noise for fun. Every unusual sound is a clue to what’s going on under the hood. The key is to act fast before a small issue turns into a massive repair bill. If you ever hear something odd, don’t ignore it. Get it checked out by a trusted technician. After all, a quiet, smooth-running car is a happy car, and a happy car means a happy driver.
Drive safe, stay aware, and keep your car in top shape.
