We know the sounds of car trouble can cause a sense of worry and panic because even the smallest sound can mean a huge dent in your pocket when it comes to repairs or replacements. Luckily, our extended car warranty covers mechanical breakdowns or electrical failures, so these sounds don’t have to send shivers down your spine!

However, even with a warranty, it’s still important to listen to our cars and what they are trying to say. Here are some common car noises, what they mean, and what you should do about them.

RELATED: WHAT DOES YOUR EXTENDED CAR WARRANTY ACTUALLY COVER?

 

5 Worrying Car Sounds Under Your Hood

 

Grinding or Screeching

  • What it means: If you hear a high-pitched screech when braking, your brake pads could be worn down. A grinding sound? That’s worse. Your brake discs might be damaged.
  • What to do: Get your brakes checked ASAP! Faulty brakes are a safety hazard.

 

Ticking or Knocking

  • What it means: Ticking could mean low oil levels or valve issues. A rhythmic knocking sound could mean something’s wrong with your engine, bearings or pistons.
  • What to do: Your engine needs oil to run smoothly, so check the oil levels and top up if needed. If you hear a knocking sound, stop driving and have your car checked out immediately, before it waves a white flag.

 

Clapping

  • What it means: If you hear a clicking sound while turning, your CV joints may be worn out.
  • What to do: Have them replaced before they fail. You don’t want to be left stranded!

 

Whining or Humming

  • What it means: A high-pitched whining sound could indicate transmission issues, often due to low transmission fluid or mechanical failure.
  • What to do: Check your transmission fluid levels. If the noise persists, have it inspected.

 

Hissing

  • What it means: A hissing sound could mean a leaking vacuum hose, a cooling system issue, or overheating.
  • What to do: Pull over and let your engine cool. If the problem continues, call for assistance.

 

RELATED:
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MECHANICAL ISSUES AND CAR CRASHES

 

Don’t Drive with Worry, Drive with a Warranty

We cover a range of mechanical and electrical failures, so if your car starts sounding suspicious, you won’t have to panic about surprise repair costs. Ready to drive with warranty? Get a quote online from dotsure.co.za today.