Grinding brake noise or engine knocking requires immediate attention. These sounds indicate serious safety issues that can lead to brake failure or engine damage.
Strange Car Noises? We'll Find the Cause
Your car's strange noises are warning signs that something needs attention. From squealing brakes to grinding transmissions, we've diagnosed and fixed every type of automotive sound for over 50 years.
Warning Symptoms to Watch For
Squealing or Screeching
HighMetal-on-metal brake contact or slipping belt - safety concern if brakes
Grinding Noise
CriticalWorn brake pads, transmission damage, or wheel bearing failure
Clicking or Ticking
MediumCV joint wear, valve train issues, or low oil pressure
Knocking or Pinging
HighEngine detonation, rod knock, or worn engine bearings
Whining or Humming
MediumTransmission problems, differential issues, or worn wheel bearings
Clunking or Banging
HighSuspension damage, worn CV joints, or transmission mount failure
Hissing or Sizzling
CriticalCoolant leak on hot engine, vacuum leak, or overheating
Roaring or Rumbling
MediumExhaust leak, bad muffler, or worn tire tread
Important: If you experience any Critical or High severity symptoms, stop driving immediately and contact us for emergency service.
Common Causes & Issues
Worn Brake Components
Very CommonBrake pads worn to backing plates cause grinding. Glazed rotors cause squealing. Immediate safety concern requiring prompt repair.
Belt Problems
Very CommonLoose, worn, or contaminated serpentine belt causes squealing, especially on startup or when turning steering wheel. Can lead to loss of power steering or charging.
CV Joint Failure
CommonWorn constant velocity joints cause clicking when turning, clunking on acceleration. Common on front-wheel drive vehicles with high mileage.
Wheel Bearing Wear
CommonFailed wheel bearings create grinding, humming, or roaring that changes with vehicle speed. Gets louder when turning if bearing on loaded side.
Engine Internal Problems
CommonLow oil causes ticking from valve train. Rod knock creates deep knocking. Piston slap causes cold engine noise. All indicate serious engine issues.
Exhaust System Damage
CommonHoles in muffler or pipes cause roaring. Loose heat shields create rattling. Broken hangers allow exhaust to hit chassis.
Our Diagnostic Process
Sound Characterization
Identify noise type, frequency, and when it occurs (speed-dependent, turning, braking, accelerating, idle).
Location Isolation
Pinpoint noise source using chassis ears, lifting vehicle, and checking each wheel/component individually.
Component Testing
Test suspected components - check belt tension, brake thickness, bearing play, CV joint movement.
Fluid Analysis
Check all fluid levels and condition. Low fluids often cause noises. Look for metal particles indicating wear.
Road Test Verification
Confirm diagnosis with targeted road test, recreating conditions that produce the noise.
Repair Options & Solutions
Brake Service
Replace pads, resurface or replace rotors, service calipers as needed.
Belt Replacement
Replace serpentine belt and tensioner if needed. Check all pulleys.
CV Joint/Axle Replacement
Replace complete CV axle assembly with new or remanufactured unit.
Wheel Bearing Replacement
Replace hub assembly or press in new bearing depending on design.
Engine Repair
Varies from valve adjustment to complete engine rebuild based on diagnosis.
Exhaust Repair
Patch holes, replace muffler, fix hangers, or replace complete exhaust system.
Prevention & Maintenance Tips
Regular Brake Inspections
Frequency: Every 12,000 miles
Potential Savings: Catch wear before metal-on-metal damage
Maintain Proper Fluid Levels
Frequency: Monthly check
Potential Savings: Prevent noise from low oil, power steering, or transmission fluid
Rotate Tires Regularly
Frequency: Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Potential Savings: Even wear prevents noise from cupped or worn tires
Address New Noises Immediately
Frequency: As they occur
Potential Savings: Small problems caught early cost much less to fix
Follow Service Schedule
Frequency: Per manufacturer
Potential Savings: Prevents most noise-causing wear issues
Annual Suspension Check
Frequency: Yearly
Potential Savings: Identify worn components before they fail
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my car make noise only when turning?
Noise when turning typically indicates CV joint problems (clicking), power steering issues (whining/squealing), or wheel bearing failure (grinding/humming). The side the noise comes from during turns helps identify which component is failing.
Is it safe to drive with strange noises?
It depends on the noise. Grinding brakes, knocking engines, or hissing sounds require immediate attention as they indicate safety issues. Squealing belts or minor rattles may allow limited driving but should be fixed promptly to prevent breakdown.
How much does noise diagnosis cost?
We offer free noise diagnosis with any service. Stand-alone diagnosis is affordably priced and is applied toward repairs if you proceed. Complex intermittent noises may require extended diagnosis. Call for specific pricing.
Why do noises get worse over time?
Most noises indicate wear or damage that progressively worsens. A squealing belt becomes looser, worn brake pads damage rotors, a small exhaust leak grows larger. Early repair prevents escalating damage and costs.
Can I diagnose car noises myself?
While you can identify obvious issues like squealing belts or grinding brakes, many noises require professional diagnosis. Similar sounds can have different causes, and misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary repairs or missed safety issues.
What should I tell my mechanic about the noise?
Note when the noise occurs (cold start, turning, braking, speed), what it sounds like (grinding, squealing, clicking), where it seems to come from, and any recent changes or repairs. Recording the sound on your phone can be helpful.
Get Your Vehicle Diagnosed Today
Don't wait until it's too late. Our expert technicians can diagnose and fix your vehicle issues quickly and affordably.
Same-day appointments available • Free estimates • All makes and models