What That Weird Noise Coming from Your Car Might Mean

What That Weird Noise Coming from Your Car Might Mean

From the pros at Platt’s Performance Plus, Inc.

If you’ve ever turned down your music to say, “What was THAT?”, you’re not alone. Strange noises from your car can be annoying, confusing, and even scary. But most of the time, your vehicle is just trying to get your attention before something more serious happens.

At our shop, we diagnose weird sounds all the time. Here’s a quick guide to what those noises could mean—and when it’s time to swing by and let us take a look.

Squealing When You Hit the Brakes

Sounds like: High-pitched screech
Possible cause: Worn brake pads
Brake pads wear down over time, and when they do, they’re designed to make noise to let you know it’s time for a change. Catch it early, and it’s a simple fix.

Grinding While Braking

Sounds like: Metal on metal
Possible cause: Brake pads are too worn
If you hear grinding, your pads may be completely gone, causing damage to your rotors. This needs attention now before it turns into a bigger, more expensive issue.

Clicking or Tapping While Driving

Sounds like: Repetitive click or light tap
Possible causes: CV joint issues, or low oil
A clicking noise when turning could be a bad CV joint. If it’s more of a tapping from the engine, check your oil level—low oil can cause serious engine damage.

Hissing Under the Hood

Sounds like: Air escaping or steam
Possible causes: Vacuum leak or overheating
This one might mean there’s a leak in your vacuum system, or worse, your engine’s overheating. It is best not to ignore it.

Rattling Underneath

Sounds like: Loose bolts or metal flapping
Possible causes: Heat shield, exhaust, or something that came loose
Could be minor, could be serious. Either way, let’s get under there and check it out.

Roaring That Gets Louder with Speed

Sounds like: Deep hum or growl
Possible causes: Worn tires or bad wheel bearings
If the sound rises with speed, you may have uneven tire wear or bad bearings both of which affect your safety on the road.

Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore It

Cars don’t speak English, but they do talk. If yours is making a weird noise, bring it by the shop. We’ll figure out what’s going on and get you fixed before it becomes a bigger problem.

Stop in or give us a call. Your car (and your wallet) will thank you.