Car Sounds and Their Meanings

Is your car making a weird noise lately? Learn some of the most common sounds you may hear from your vehicle, what’s causing them, and what you need to do about it.

Humming Noise

A humming sound is one of the more mysterious noises your car could make because it could have many different causes. Most commonly, it means the transmission is failing, your wheel bearings are wearing out, or the differential needs lubricant. Pay attention to when your car is making the noise to help your mechanic diagnose the issue.

Squealing or Grinding from the Brakes

You’ve probably experienced this sound before and thought, “Time to get my brakes checked.” You’d be right! Squealing or grinding brakes come from worn out brake pads. Get to an auto shop ASAP to ensure your brakes are in good shape and keep you safe.

Thudding Sound from the Tires

This means one of two things is happening: your tires are low on air pressure, or they are misaligned. Fill up your tires first to see if that fixes the problem. If not, take your car to your mechanic for a wheel alignment.

Chugging or Rattling Sound

Rattling noises or a train-like chugging sound are likely caused by issues with your exhaust system. This could be from a blockage or due to improper alignment of the system. Your local auto shop should be able to find and fix the cause.

Hissing or Screeching Under the Hood

A worn out or loose serpentine belt will create hissing or screeching noises from within your engine. This needs to be looked at because if it gives out on you, your car can’t run. Save yourself the headache later and fix it now!

Is your car making any of these sounds? Or perhaps another sound not listed here? Contact Auto Correct to have your issue diagnosed and fixed by our certified technicians.