What Different Problems Sound Like

1. Engine knocking

* Sound: A metallic tapping or knocking sound that increases in speed as the engine RPMs increase.

* Cause: There are several possible causes of engine knocking, including:

* Low oil level

* Worn or damaged engine bearings

* Piston slap

* Carbon buildup on the pistons or valves

* Fix: The solution to engine knocking depends on the cause. If the cause is low oil level, simply adding oil will solve the problem. If the cause is worn or damaged engine bearings, the bearings will need to be replaced. Piston slap and carbon buildup can sometimes be fixed by using a fuel injector cleaner additive.

2. Transmission whining

* Sound: A high-pitched whining sound that is most noticeable when the vehicle is accelerating.

* Cause: Transmission whining is typically caused by a low fluid level or worn-out gears.

* Fix: The solution to transmission whining is to add fluid or replace the worn-out gears.

3. Wheel bearing noise

* Sound: A grinding or humming sound that is most noticeable when the vehicle is turning.

* Cause: Wheel bearing noise is caused by worn-out ball bearings in the wheel hub assembly.

* Fix: The solution to wheel bearing noise is to replace the worn-out wheel bearings.

4. Brake squeal

* Sound: A high-pitched squealing or screeching sound that is most noticeable when the brakes are applied.

* Cause: Brake squeal is typically caused by worn-out brake pads or rotors.

* Fix: The solution to brake squeal is to replace the worn-out brake pads or rotors.

5. Exhaust leak

* Sound: A hissing or popping sound that is coming from the exhaust system.

* Cause: Exhaust leaks are typically caused by a hole or crack in the exhaust pipe.

* Fix: The solution to an exhaust leak is to patch the hole or crack in the exhaust pipe.