Whether you drive your vehicle every day or a few times a week, you’re likely familiar with the usual noise of the engine purring along or the satisfying sound of gears changing as you accelerate on the highway.
However, if your vehicle emits an ear-piercing squeak or squeal while driving, it should be evident that something isn’t right. Our team at Huffines Chevrolet in Lewisville, Texas, has made this list of potential car issues that can cause squeaking or squealing sounds. If you notice any of them, contact us right away.
Do Vehicles Normally Have Squeaking or Squealing Sounds?
Vehicles don’t usually make squealing or squeaking noises when running as they should. Each system in your car is made with precision parts and should only make the typical sounds you hear from a motor or engine. While some odd sounds may be minor, others could be signs that something serious is wrong or about to go bad. That’s why we must look at your vehicle if it starts making unfamiliar noises. Let’s explore the potential issues causing your car to emit uncomfortable squealing or squeaking sounds.
Noises When Turning the Ignition
When starting your vehicle, you should only hear the engine turning over and the radio coming on. It will be tuned to your favorite radio station if you leave it. However, if you hear a distinctive squealing sound, there might be an issue with the serpentine belt or one of the other belts that run the engine system. The serpentine belt runs the alternator, power steering pump, and heating and air conditioning system. If it’s worn or frayed, it could break, leaving you without the use of these vital systems. A squeaking belt needs replacement as soon as possible.
Odd Sounds When You’re Turning the Steering Wheel
The serpentine belt helps run the power steering system, and if it’s damaged, the whole system will have issues. In addition, if the power steering pump is wearing out or needs fluid, you’ll hear a nasty squealing sound from the engine compartment. Because the serpentine belt and power steering system work together to turn and maneuver your vehicle, it becomes unsafe if either is compromised. Schedule service as soon as possible to have us repair the power steering system.
Squeaking Noises When You Step on the Brakes
The brakes on your vehicle are essential for stopping the car when needed. You must always have good working brakes to ensure your safety, that of your passengers, and anyone else on the road. If the brakes feel soft or you hear a squeaking sound, it’s a sign that a part is worn thin or about to break.
As part of your routine maintenance, our service technicians inspect the brake pads and brake discs for signs of wear. If the wear levels are below the safety threshold, we recommend replacing them with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts we carry at our dealership in Lewisville, Texas. If you haven’t had your brakes inspected in a while, and you hear squealing, bring them to us as soon as possible so we can install new brake parts to ensure safe stopping power for your vehicle.
Unusual Sounds When You Drive Over Uneven Terrain
Squeaks and squeals from under your vehicle, especially when driving on rough roads or over potholes, indicate an issue with the suspension system. This system, which consists of shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, bushings, and more, helps give the vehicle a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing bumps. It also helps prevent damage to other systems in your car.
If you hear squeaking, it may mean a suspension part is broken or worn thin, resulting in a metal-on-metal sound. It could also mean the system needs lubrication. As part of regular maintenance, our service technicians inspect all parts of the suspension system and lubricate them with approved products and materials. Preventive lubrication is far less costly than replacing expensive suspension or steering system parts.
Squealing When Running the Engine
If you notice an odd noise when the engine is idling or running, it could be the alternator pulley. The alternator helps create electricity for the car’s electrical system. If it’s compromised, the system will fail to start the engine, run crucial systems, and deprive the car of functional lights or windshield wipers. Additional signs of a bad alternator include flickering or inconsistent headlight light, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a low or dead battery.
If the alternator begins to whine or your car exhibits any signs of electrical failure, our service technicians can generally fix it by replacing one of the alternator pulley’s bearings, replacing the belt, or, if necessary, installing a new alternator.
A Whistling Sound When Running the Car
If you hear a whistling sound while the car is running, it could be overheating due to a lack of coolant or an issue with the radiator or cooling system. As the coolant and fluids in the system begin to overheat, they let out steam and create a whistling sound similar to heating water in a tea kettle. Stop the vehicle and call a tow truck if you notice this sound. Overheating the engine can cause it to seize up and cause extensive and expensive damage.
Is Your Vehicle Making a Squeaking Sound?
If your vehicle makes any kind of squeaking or squealing sounds, schedule service with us at Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville, Texas, as soon as possible. The sooner the issue’s fixed, the better your vehicle will run and the longer it’ll last. When we make repairs or perform routine maintenance, we only use OEM parts to ensure the part precisely fits your Chevrolet model and trim. explore our various service specials for discounts and coupons, or contact us to learn more about our services.