- A squeak or a grate or a grinding noise can warn a driver about problems like an improperly adjusted emission system, a leak in a hose or an ignition system whose timing is out of whack.
- If the engine starts to ping or knock when the vehicle is accelerating uphill, possible problems include incorrect ignition timing, a carburetor that needs attention, or even vacuum leaks. It could also be suggesting to you that you move up to a gasoline with a higher anti-knock (octane) index.
- If the car keeps hiccuping after the ignition is turned off, as though it doesn't want to stop running. The problem could be incorrect idle adjustment, a malfunctioning air cleaner valve or simply that the engine is running too hot because of a broken thermostat, clogged radiator or faulty water pump.
- A ticking or sort of extremely rapid tapping sound often means there isn't enough oil and the hydraulic lifters in the valve train are making a noise.
- Squealing from the tires when you're driving along in normal circumstances probably means your wheels need alignment. Squealing brakes could simply mean there's a bit of dust in the cylinders, or it could mean that something more serious is wrong, such as worn brake pads. If the squealing turns into a grinding noise, drive directly to the nearest service station, because chances are your brakes are in need of immediate and urgent repair.
- If the car clunks when you put it in gear, a front-end component may be loose, or the U-joint may be worn and need replacement. In the latter case the clunking is usually accompanied by a squeak or vibration as the car accelerates.
- Whistling or hissing noises may mean an air (vacuum) hose leak. A squealing sound can bean a loose drive belt. If the belt breaks, there will be a loud, rapid knocking sound lasting for a few seconds.
So if you listen, your car can talk to you. And even if you don't know what the noises - the "words" in auto-ese - mean, you should soon be able to identify which sounds are normal and which may mean something is wrong. Once you can do that, you can get your car prompt attention and save yourself a lot of money and frustration. And remember, you can't say your car didn't try to warn you!
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