
Key Takeaways:
- A rattling noise from under the hood is usually due to a loose heat shield. These shields are designed to protect engine components from the high temperatures generated by the exhaust system.
- Hissing is an outcome of coolant leaks. If there’s a leak, the coolant level will drop, and your engine could overheat.
- If you hear squeaking when you turn the steering wheel, it’s likely due to a problem with the power steering system.
- If you’re hearing a grinding noise, it’s best to have the brakes checked as soon as possible.
- If your car is making strange noises, bring it to Cutter Buick GMC service center. They have a solution for every problem.
You’re driving down the lane, enjoying the scenery and relaxing to your favorite tunes. Suddenly, you hear a strange noise coming from your car. You try to ignore it, but the noise persists. What should you do? Don’t worry! We’re here to help.
In this blog post, we’ll list ten car noises that you shouldn’t ignore. Keep reading to learn more!
1. A “Clunk” When You Go Over Bumps
Clunking sound from your car indicates that the shock absorbers or struts are beginning to fail. These parts work in unison to provide a smooth ride by absorbing the impact of bumps in the road. You’ll feel every little imperfection while driving when they’re not working properly. Not only is this an unpleasant driving experience, but it can also lead to more serious problems down the road.
Replacing shock absorbers and struts is typically not a do-it-yourself job and will need to be done by a professional mechanic. Cost for this type damage repair is between $1,000 – $4,000. And that value can go into excess!
2. Squeaks While Turning the Steering Wheel
If you hear squeaking when you turn the steering wheel, it’s likely due to a problem with the power steering system. The power steering system uses hydraulic fluid, which assists in turning the wheels. If there’s a leak in the system, you may hear a squealing noise as the pump tries to operate without enough fluid. This can make it difficult to turn the wheel, especially at lower speeds.
Power steering fluid flush and replacement cost around $100 – $200. However, power steering pump replacement may cost over $500. A professional mechanic will do these repairs.
3. Clunking Sounds When Shifting Gears
If you hear a clunking sound every time you shift gears, it could be due to a problem with your transmission. The transmission assembly is responsible for shifting gears in your car. Over time, the transmission fluid can break down and cause problems with shifting gears. In some cases, the transmission may need to be completely replaced.

4. Grinding Car Noise When Braking
If there’s a grinding noise every time you brake, your brake pads are likely worn out & need to be replaced. These pads act as a cushion between the caliper and the rotor. They can cause the caliper to grind against the rotor, creating an unpleasant noise when worn down. Replacing your brake pads is straightforward, so it shouldn’t cost too much.
5. Hissing Under the Hood
The hissing sound from under the hood could be due to a coolant leak. Coolant helps keep your engine temperature consistent. If there’s a leak, the coolant level will drop, and your engine could overheat. You’ll need to take your car to a professional mechanic for leak repair to fix this problem. Repairing this type of damage may cost you between $100 – $500.
Related: Watch Out For These 4 Signs Of A Faulty Radiator!
6. Clicking Noise When Turning
If you hear a clicking car noise when you turn the steering wheel, it’s likely due to a problem with the CV joint. The CV (constant velocity) joint allows the wheels to turn while the car moves. If there’s a problem with the CV joint, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
7. Rattling Under the Hood
A rattling noise from under the hood is usually due to a loose heat shield. Heat shields are designed to protect various engine components from the high temperatures generated by the exhaust system. Over time, they can become loose and rattle around.
The cost to replace a heat shield will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model and where you have the work done.
8. Grinding When Braking
A grinding noise when braking usually indicates a brake pad or rotor problem. If the brake pads are worn down, they may start to grind against the rotors. This can cause damage to the rotors, which will need to be replaced.
If you’re hearing a grinding noise, it’s best to have the brakes checked as soon as possible.
9. Knocking and Tapping
A tapping noise that you hear while you’re driving could be an indication that your engine is low on oil. It’s crucial to check your oil level regularly & top it off if necessary; if you ignore this problem, it could damage your engine.
A knocking noise you hear while driving usually indicates that your engine is low on oil. As with the tapping noise, it’s important to check your oil level regularly and top it off if necessary; if you ignore this problem, it could damage your engine.
Related: Fluids Your Automobile Will Be Grateful For!
Conclusion
If you hear these car noises, don’t ignore them! Bring your car to a certified and professional mechanic as soon as possible to get it diagnosed and repaired. Continuing to drive with a problem can only worsen it and cost you more money in the long run.
Get your car serviced at Cutter Buick GMC, serving Waipahu, HI, and save money!
Our service coupons are updated regularly, so you can always get great value when you bring your car in for a tune-up or other service.
You deserve to treat your car to the best service possible, and at Cutter Buick GMC, we make it easy & affordable for you to do just that. Come see us today!
