Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Shake, Rattle and Roll - Part 1

 Sounds my car makes and what they could mean


Nothing sounds better than the “hummm” of a car that runs smoothly. It’s comforting to know that all is well under the hood. But, one click, thump, tick, eeek, clang or thunk can put you into an emotional tailspin. What is it? Should I speed to the next service station or can I delay?

Let’s review some of those unexpected sounds and what you should do about them (as recommended by popularmechanics.com).


1. The Heartbeat: “ThumpThump – ThumpThump – ThumpThump
You’ll usually hear this from one or more of your tires. It speeds up as the car goes faster. You don’t have to rush to the service station, but it would be a good idea to have the uneven wearing checked and replace the tires when recommended.

2. The Fit: “FFFFffff ttttFFFF ffff ttttFFFFffff tttt
You’ll hear this from under the hood and you’ll have a fit! Hot exhaust gases are being released into the air. They will eventually damage the manifold. And the carbon monoxide could make you drowsy or kill you. Go to the service station and have the exhaust manifold gasket replaced.

3. The Clock: Ticktickticktick
This sound comes from under the center of the car in the rear. You’ll hear it when your car is moving. It means that the U-joint could be failing and needs grease. Go to the service station, replace the U-joints and grease them regularly.

4. The Violin: EEEEEEEeeeee
If your wheels are squeaking when slowing down, your brake pads may be rubbing the discs. Try new pads or ask your auto mechanic to repair them.

5. The Snake: SSSSSSSSSSSS
You could swear there’s a snake under the hood of your car! You notice it especially when your car is idling. It’s probably a vacuum leak. You may need to reconnect or replace the rubber or plastic vacuum line or fitting.  At least it’s not a snake!

6. The Pots and Pans: Clang
You’ll hear the clang near the middle of your car or truck when you accelerate at traffic lights. You’ll hear it mostly on pickups that are automatic.  The teeth on the drive shaft bind while slowing down and release when you start again. It can be bothersome. So pack the area with special grease.

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