Troubleshooting Car Sounds with the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

All vehicles make noises and not all of them are unusual or problematic. Strange automotive sounds do not necessarily mean you need to prepare for pricey auto repairs. The sounds your car makes may help in diagnosing what your issue may be. These are some of the more common auto sounds that can aid in troubleshooting auto problems.

I hear a tick, tick, tick sound

If you have a sharp tick, ticking from under the hood and it continues ticking all the time, you should take a look at the oil level.  When oil levels are low it can cause a ticking type of noise within your engine.  Check to see that your oil is full.  If not, fill to the appropriate level and see if the ticking problem stops.  If this does not remedy the problem, or if the ticking would get louder, you should set an appointment with a trusted mechanic or auto repair shop to have your valves evaluated.

If the ticking sounds only happen when the car is first started, but stops shortly after, it is most likely completely normal and is just the oil taking a little time to circulate through the engine.

Another cause of a tick, tick or clacking sound from your engine could be faulty lifters.  If you think this is likely your issue, consult with an auto repair shop to determine your options.

I hear a rattle and tick sound

There are a couple of likely issues to look into when you hear rattling and ticking or clacking sounds.  You first need to determine what area of your engine the sounds are coming from.  Begin with checking if the sounds come from the front side of the engine or the side where your belts are located.  When sounds come from this area and also become either faster or louder as you rev the engine, you are likely looking at a loose timing belt.  While some cars do not have these anymore, many still do.  When discovered early, a loose timing chain can be fixed before creating bigger problems.  If you think there are problems with the timing chain I definitely recommend a trip to an auto repair shop to have it assessed by a mechanic.

I hear a grinding sound

Grinding noises as you press on the breaks needs to be addressed quickly.  You are most likely in need of a brake repair.  You never want to put it off dealing with brake problems.  Waiting can cause extensive and sometimes very costly damages.

If the grinding sound happens as you come to a stop, you need to find and fix it immediately.  By the time this type of noise begins you are already probably going to be replacing your brake discs.

In the Columbia, SC area you can schedule an auto repair appointment at Sanford’s Automotive Service.  We have been proudly serving Columbia, SC and surrounding communities with the best in foreign and domestic auto repairs since 1989.