Be aware of any strange noises in your car

You have just driven out your car and suddenly you hear noise you haven’t heard before. It could be an indication of something gone wrong. Some modern 4x4 cars and vans are complex but they are also reliable and normally signal failure before major repair is needed.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

You have just driven out your car and suddenly you hear noise you haven’t heard before.

It could be an indication of something gone wrong. Some modern 4x4 cars and vans are complex but they are also reliable and normally signal failure before major repair is needed.

Some noises are just irritating while others are indicating that something is seriously wrong.
         
Here are some of the noises

Clunking   noise
Clunking noise happens when starting or braking. Sometimes it happens when turning sharp corners.

Possible causes

Clunking noise is caused by loosened engine mounting or loosened exhaust. If the noise is heard when turning, the problem is usually with the driving shaft. The driving shaft is made up of two parts; the rod shaft from differential which joins the constant velocity (CV) joint to wheel hub.

It is a moveable joint that allows the car to turn in all directions. Inside the CV joint there are bearings and grease that enables the bearings to turn smoothly and reduce friction.

Again the CV joint is covered with rubber boot to prevent sand and stones from entering into the bearings. You should always check your rubber boot at every service to see if it is in good condition.

Solution (s)

Check engine mounting and replace it if necessary.
Check exhaust mounting. It could need proper tightening or replacement. 

Change CV joint.

Roaring noise

It sounds worse when you accelerate. It sounds very loud and sometimes it sounds like a rally car and consumption increases and there is loss of pulling power.

Causes

Leaking exhaust and worn out exhaust pipe gaskets are the main causes.

Ends