5 Common Car Noises and What They Mean

Cars have a way of communicating with us—through noises. Whether it’s a squeal, rattle, or clunk, strange sounds often indicate that something isn’t right. Understanding these noises can help you identify issues early and prevent costly repairs. At Redmon’s Auto Care in Lebanon, OH, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing these problems to keep your car running smoothly.

1. Squealing When Braking

If your brakes squeal when you press the pedal, it’s often a sign that the brake pads are worn down and need replacement. Ignoring this sound can lead to rotor damage, which is a more expensive repair.

What to Do: Schedule a brake inspection immediately to avoid compromising your safety.

2. Rattling Under the Hood

A rattling sound under the hood could be caused by a loose belt or a failing timing chain. Both are critical components that keep your engine running smoothly.

What to Do: Don’t wait—visit a trusted mechanic like Redmon’s Auto Care for a thorough engine inspection.

3. Clunking When Going Over Bumps

Clunking noises when driving over potholes or speed bumps usually point to suspension issues. Worn-out shocks, struts, or bushings are common culprits.

What to Do: Have your suspension inspected and repaired to ensure your car handles well and stays safe on the road.

4. Humming or Roaring from the Tires

A humming or roaring sound that gets louder as you accelerate could mean your tires are unevenly worn or that a wheel bearing is failing.

What to Do: Check your tires for wear patterns and schedule an alignment or bearing replacement if needed.

5. Knocking from the Engine

Engine knocking often results from poor fuel quality or an issue with the combustion process. Left unchecked, it can lead to serious engine damage.

What to Do: Address this issue promptly by having a mechanic run a diagnostic test to determine the cause.

How Redmon’s Auto Care Can Help

At Redmon’s Auto Care in Lebanon, OH, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing car issues quickly and efficiently. Our certified technicians use state-of-the-art tools to pinpoint the source of any noise and provide cost-effective solutions to get you back on the road.

Pro Tips for Preventing Noisy Repairs

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
   Routine check-ups help identify potential problems before they escalate.
2. Use Quality Parts
   When replacing components, opt for high-quality parts to ensure durability and reduce noise.
3. Pay Attention to Changes
   Unusual sounds are your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. Address them promptly.
4. Inspect Your Tires Regularly
   Proper alignment and rotation can prevent tire-related noises.

Don’t Ignore Car Noises

Strange noises might seem minor, but they often signal underlying problems that can worsen over time. By addressing these issues early, you can save money and ensure your car stays safe and reliable.

Schedule Your Diagnostic Appointment Today

Hearing strange noises from your car? Let Redmon’s Auto Care in Lebanon, Ohio, help. Visit our Contact Us page or call us to schedule an inspection and enjoy a quieter, safer drive.

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