For the most part, modern cars and trucks are pretty quiet and reliable. When a problem does pop up, the vehicle will usually alert you with a flashing indicator light. However, some problems can be detected long before a light comes on, or they might not trip one at all. Because of that, it is important for drivers to know the normal sounds of their vehicles. If you start to hear one of these three noises, it is time to uncover the source.
- Grinding
A grinding or screeching sound when you apply the breaks is a sign of wear to the pads or shoes. You may also notice a loss of stopping ability when you hear this sound. Having brakes inspected regularly can help you avoid an accident and that embarrassing sound when you tap them. If you’ve let it get to the grinding stage, it is time to schedule brake repair Bloomington IL to get a new set installed.
- Squealing
There is at least one belt in your engine, and there may be several. Chances are, one of them is at least indirectly responsible for the squealing sounds you are hearing. It could be a worn belt, or the bearing within its drive pulley could be bad. Either way, failing to address the problem could lead to a broken belt and getting stranded on the side of the road.
- Hissing
If your vehicle is starting to sound more reptilian these days, you probably have a leak somewhere. If you don’t see the telltale signs of a fluid leak under your car, it is probably best to leave diagnostics to the professionals. With the myriad hoses, fittings and lines running throughout a modern engine, it may take a pressure test to determine where the leak is coming from.
Even if you know next to nothing about cars, you can still keep an ear out for unusual sounds coming from your engine compartment. Grinding, squealing and hissing warrant a call to your mechanic before the problem gets out of hand.
