MotivWerks is the best auto shop in Chambersburg, and you can trust us to figure out why your car is making strange noises. You can also trust us to explain the problem thoroughly and answer any questions you might have. In this blog post, we are going to narrow down the strange noises to engine noises. Here are strange engine noises and what they mean.
Growling
The first two noises we are going to discuss may sound like an angry or frightened cat. If your engine is growling or grinding, we recommend that you stop driving your vehicle and call for a tow truck. Unfortunately, this sound suggests that the motor oil has stopped circulating through the engine for some reason. Usually, this reason is a clogged oil filter.
Hissing
If you can hear hissing in the engine, it probably needs a new vacuum hose because an old one is leaking. The hissing sound may be accompanied by an increase in the engine’s RPMs. Another reason why the engine will make a hissing noise is a fluid leak. As you know, your engine parts are hot, and the fluid will hiss or sizzle when it drips onto them.
Knocking
Many people fear that a knocking engine means a dead engine, and in one case, this can be true. If the engine is knocking because the rod bearings are worn, the pistons are damaging the cylinder walls. The engine may also knock, however, because there is a fuel detonation problem in the cylinders.
Popping
The exhaust system is usually the source of a popping sound. This can mean that your catalytic converter is clogged or the exhaust manifold is leaking. The exhaust manifold gasket may also pop or tap if it is leaking. In addition, a loose muffler can pop when you accelerate.
Roaring
Speaking of the muffler, if it is too loose or has a hole in it, your engine will roar loudly, especially when you accelerate. This is not the only thing that can make the engine roar. A stolen catalytic converter can also make the engine roar because there is nothing to muffle the sound of the exhaust.
Squealing
Finally, a malfunctioning power steering pump will make your engine squeal when you turn the steering wheel. The pump is actually what is squealing; not the engine. In addition, the accessory belt can wear down over time and start to squeal when you first start your automobile.
We are MotivWerks in Chambersburg, PA, and we are here to help. Call us today to set up a service appointment.