Halloween is the season for things that go bump in the night. Your car shouldn’t be one of them. Here’s a quick guide to some of the spookiest sounds a car can make and what they usually mean.
A high-pitched squeal when you brake is often the built-in wear indicator on your brake pads letting you know they’re getting thin. It’s a friendly warning. If that squeal turns into a harsh grinding sound, the pads may be worn all the way down and metal is scraping against metal. That one needs attention right away.
A loud roar that gets louder when you speed up usually points to the exhaust. A hole in the muffler or a cracked pipe lets the sound escape before it’s quieted. A loud exhaust can also mean a leak that lets fumes reach the cabin, so it’s worth checking soon.
A rattle from underneath, especially at idle, is often a loose heat shield or a broken exhaust hanger. It sounds alarming but is usually a simple fix.
A clicking sound when you turn sharply, like when you pull into a parking space, is often a worn axle joint. Catching it early can prevent a bigger repair.
A clunk when you go over bumps usually comes from worn suspension parts. A hissing sound under the hood can mean a vacuum leak or coolant escaping from somewhere hot. A whining noise that changes as you turn the steering wheel often points to the power steering.
The scariest sound of all is the one you ignore until it becomes a breakdown. If your car has started making a noise that gives you the creeps, bring it by. Between Dallas’s ear for exhaust and Thomas’s experience with everything else, we’ll get to the bottom of it. Call Stones River Auto and Exhaust at (615) 961-6322 or stop by 1601 Flat Rock Rd in Murfreesboro, Monday through Friday from 8 to 5.
