We recommend that you head straight to our shop if your engine is making strange noises. In fact, if you are concerned about damaging your engine, pull over and call for a tow truck. We are going to list the different noises engines can make below and the problems that cause them.
Grinding
It is safer to call for a tow truck than to drive your vehicle if the engine is grinding. The reason why is that you may not have any oil circulating through the engine. Consequently, if you continue to drive your automobile, the engine may seize up in less than 30 minutes.
Grumbling
A grumbling, roaring, or rumbling engine is an indication that it’s time to replace the muffler. It likely has a hole in it and can no longer muffle the engine sound. This can also be a sign that somebody crawled underneath your vehicle and stole the catalytic converter while you were away from it.
Hissing
If you hear hissing noises in the engine, you might have leaking fluid. For example, assume for the moment that the motor oil is leaking onto the head gasket; it will hiss or sizzle when it touches the hot part. A vacuum leak out of one of the hoses can also make your engine hiss.
Humming
Let’s talk about the transmission now. A humming transmission is in desperate need of service. This is a sign that it needs to be repaired. Other noises that you may hear from the transmission include squealing, grinding, or clunking when you put the transmission into gear.
Knocking
You probably already know that the engine will knock if the fuel is not firing properly in the cylinders. This can be caused by low-octane fuel or a lean fuel mixture. Your engine will also knock if the rod bearings are worn out. Worn bearings because the rods to jiggle in the cylinders.
Popping
An engine that pops or taps has an exhaust system problem. This could mean that there is a clog in the catalytic converter. It can also be a sign that there is a hole in the muffler. Finally, you may have a crack in the exhaust manifold gasket or the exhaust manifold.
Squealing
Finally, the most common reason why your engine will squeal is a loose accessory belt. This build is also called the serpentine belt. Other engine parts that can squeal when they are going bad include the power steering pump and the water pump.
We are here to help, so call us today if your car, truck, or utility vehicle is making strange noises. We will find the problem and fix it.