Diagnose Your Car Sounds

Car Sounds and What the Issue Could Be

Daily driving puts wear and tear on any vehicle. While regular maintenance will help keep your vehicle running smoothly, other issues can come up. Strange sounds are often one of the first indications that a part or system in your car might need attention. Here are some of the most common and what they might mean:

Squeaky Brakes

Sometimes when the brakes squeak, moisture or dust could have gotten into the brake system, which is normal and should go away over time. You may also hear squeaking after you have new brake pads installed as well. The metal fibers are coated with protective elements that cause this. Normal driving and braking will usually wear these areas down quickly and the noise should disappear. However, other times it might mean your brake pads or rotors are wearing out and in need of replacement. If you continue to hear squeaking, contact our team of certified Volkswagen service professionals for a complete inspection.

Engine Rattling

If you hear a rattling sound coming from your engine, it might be due to premature ignition. This is also known as the pre-detonation of fuel. The problem could be bad ignition timing, improper fuel octane, bad engine valves, pistons or connecting rods or it could be your engine overheating. In any case, it can cause damage if not treated promptly.

Engine Clicking

A clicking sound from your engine while your vehicle is running can be normal. When your vehicle is running the fuel injectors quickly open and close to let fuel enter the internal combustion chamber. A clicking sound occurs when that happens and is part of the normal operation of your vehicle. However, engine clicking, ticking or tapping can also indicate an issue. If you have a low level of engine oil, the issue could be coming from rod knock, which is a problem with the valve train or reciprocating components. To be safe, bring your vehicle in and our team will do a full diagnostic to confirm the cause and repair options.

Engine Knocking

If you hear a loud knocking sound, it's important to get to a mechanic right away. Knocking sounds in the engine can be very serious. It might mean that you have worn or damaged pistons, valves, or connecting rods. A knocking sound could also be from a transmission problem or a worn crankshaft. Continuing to drive a vehicle with engine knock can cause irreversible damage to your engine.

Engine Squealing

A squealing sound from your engine compartment is generally related to a loose or worn belt. If you have an older vehicle, then it's likely to come from an accessory belt that powers your alternator, steering pump or AC compressor. If you have a newer vehicle, then it might be the serpentine belt. A squealing noise can also indicate a failing alternator. If you hear a squealing sound when you are turning the steering wheel there could be an issue with the steering system. Our team can perform a full inspection of your belts and other components to determine the exact cause and get you back on the road quickly.

If your car is experiencing any unusual sounds, make sure to contact our Volkswagen dealership to diagnose the problem. The factory certified technicians at our auto repair center in Phoenix, AZ work on a variety of makes and models, and will ensure your vehicle gets proper treatment.

* For informational purposes only. For an official diagnosis and details on your vehicle, please schedule an appointment with our dealership.