The most common engine noises to never ignore

The engine is the heart of any car. You rely on it while driving to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. It's also the source of many noises you only sometimes notice. If you suspect a weird sound from your car there might need repair but need more time to take it in for regular maintenance, you might find yourself with engine noises coming from your vehicle. While these may be normal noises and not necessarily a sign of damage, they could also mean something is wrong that needs to be addressed. But what is abnormal engine noise? Well, you need to pay extra attention to all the irregularities with your vehicle.

When you own a car like BMW, you should look for a mechanic skilled in that make and model, but even before that, focus on the noises well. Knowing what these noises are will help determine if you should schedule an appointment at the professional BMW mechanics in Melbourne or just let the noise go. As a driver, you have gotten used to your vehicle's typical engine sounds and know they aren't necessary. However, if those sounds start to change or get louder, they should be addressed immediately. 

Here are seven engine noises you should never ignore:

7 Engine noises to never ignore

Take a look at the seven most common engine noises that you should never ignore:

Clicking sound

If you notice a clicking or tapping sound while driving, try opening your car window and listening closely. If the noise gets louder or more noticeable when you accelerate and speeds up when you go faster, it is likely caused by an issue with your tappet. To test your oil levels, bring your vehicle to a mechanic to have it checked out.

Deep knocking

Deep knocking is a louder, more disturbing engine noise than a light tapping. It is usually related to the rod bearings and becomes noticeable when you change gears or speed up. Poor engine tuning or neglect can create this issue. Either way, it means sooner or later, they will fail if you don't fix them. If left untreated could also be caused by an issue with the timing of the air-fuel mixture. Both problems call for immediate roadside assistance from your auto repair shop.

Rattling

A slipped or damaged camshaft belt can cause a rattling and whining noise. It is most audible at acceleration, and a defective timing chain might also cause the noise. The camshaft belt synchronizes the valves' and pistons' motion; the timing chain synchronizes the crankshaft's and camshaft's motion. Your make and model will determine whether you have one or both parts. An auto shop must examine rattling and whining.

Squealing

If your car is squealing and you have difficulty pinpointing the issue, bring it to your auto mechanic. Experts are skilled in giving you an accurate diagnosis. Your serpentine belt has been working very hard over time, so it can start squealing when it gets old. It may need to either be tightened or replaced if it has issues. However, if your engine oil is low, it could also cause the belt to squeal. Always check the oil before taking your car in so they can locate any leaks or other issues that need to be fixed.

Grinding

It could be your transmission if you've heard an unusual grinding sound from the engine. If you're hearing it while shifting gears, it can be caused by several problems in your transmission dipstick tube. It can be caused by worn or faulty manufactured parts or faulty maintenance. Problems with a vehicle's transmission include improper shifting and clutch operation. For example, if you don't push the clutch down properly when trying to change gears, you may damage the transmission. Newly licensed drivers or those not used to gearshift levers should be cautious about these issues.

Hissing 

A hissing engine can be a symptom of an overheating engine or plugged exhaust system/catalytic converter, but it can also mean vacuum leaks. Whatever the case, make an appointment for repair immediately. As an overheating engine poses a significant safety risk, not to mention it can cost you thousands in repair costs, this issue is something you do not want to ignore.

Popping 

A popping noise coming from your vehicle is usually a sign of a severe problem. If you hear this sound frequently, you should get the car checked immediately. The most common cause of these engine noises is leaking, especially within the fuel injector. However, holes in your muffler can also make popping sounds. Ensure to take care of all exhaust leaks as soon as possible to prevent further engine problems, such as damage and poor emissions ratings. 

What engine noises are normal?

As car ages, it can grow more difficult to produce power. A good engine should rumble with a roar that is not too loud. If you feel that your car's engine is noisier than usual, there could be an issue with cylinder compression. An uneven air-fuel ratio in the cylinders will cause combustion at rates that vary beyond normal levels; this produces a buzzing or rumbling sound called "pinging."

What are the common causes of abnormal engine sound?

Here are some of the common causes of the abnormal sounds that come out of the engine:

Faulty muffler 

A worn-out or damaged muffler can cause your car's engine to run louder. The sound will not come from the engine itself but its exhaust. Besides the loud noise volume, other potential side effects of a faulty muffler could be poorer gas mileage and increased fumes. You will want to take care of it to keep your car running smoothly and improve your mileage.

Leaking exhaust

A leaking exhaust is a notoriously dangerous problem. Carbon monoxide fumes can poison the occupants, and scorching exhaust gases can melt plastic parts and cause engine control problems. If your car is sputtering and coughing, with an illuminated check engine light on the dash, a leaky manifold could be causing damage.

Lesser oil

You should check the oil if you hear a grinding or scraping sound under your vehicle. If you own a newer model car, you can rely on the engine oil level monitor to warn you when more oil is needed. However, this sensor might have stopped working correctly in older vehicles. In this case, you need to keep track of the oil level yourself. Top up or change the oil as needed, but if there is a suspected leak, your car needs tune-up work to avoid damage to its engine.

Conclusion

When looking for engine noises, you should try to be patient. There is absolutely no reason to panic because the car is making a noise. The sound could signal that something is about to go wrong. It might be time for a simple repair at the dealer, or it might be time for an expensive engine replacement. You can save money and get peace of mind by going to the mechanic on schedule for professional car service in Melbourne to maintain your car's health.