November is a month of bonfires and fireworks. On bonfire weekend, millions of us headed to our local parks, fields and back gardens to watch the bonfire being lit and a tirade of colourful and noisy fireworks shooting into the air in rhythm to the warbling tones of Coldplay and Katy Perry.
Yet these noises – bangs, pops, whizzes, squeals and shrieks – may sound amazing coupled with Catherine Wheels and warm fires on a cold November night but not so good when emanating from your car. And whilst many of us love watching the fireworks so much that we don’t care how cold it is, the same can’t be said when traipsing to work and back.
Sadly, if you don’t make sure that your car is ready for the winter temperatures, it’s very likely that you will end up having to get to work, do the school pick-up or go shopping without the comfort and warmth of your vehicle.
So in the spirit of Bonfire Night, let’s talk about certain noises you really can’t – and shouldn’t – ignore when it comes to your car…
Car hissing like a squib?
If, whilst driving or after you’ve turned the engine off, you hear a hissing noise from the engine compartment, it might mean that your engine is overheating. It could also be leaking coolant from its coolant system.
To check, carefully open the bonnet and look for any evidence of coolant leaking from the engine, the radiator or hoses. Do you smell a sweet odour? It’s likely that your antifreeze is leaking.
As a temporary measure you can add more coolant but if the system is leaking, the only way to fix it is to repair the leak. Make sure you never open the radiator or coolant reservoir cap until the engine has cooled down or you risk serious injury. And then call your local, trusted garage.
Wheel squealing?
If you notice a cyclic squealing noise coming from your wheel, which may change in pitch the slower or faster your drive, it could be down to a wheel bearing or axle failing. It is imperative that you have your car checked out as soon as possible as this sort of issue could result in the wheel locking or coming away from the car entirely!
Remember that this is not to be confused with the groaning or creaking noises that may come from your brake pads. In wet weather, the moisture can cause your brake pads to swell and drag slightly, hence the noise. However, if you hear a screeching noise when you apply the brakes, there is a good chance that your car’s brake pads need to be replaced.
Whining noises when you turn a corner?
If you can hear whining or humming when you take a corner, it could mean that your wheel bearings are wearing.
Exhaust roaring?
Have you noticed that your exhaust roars when driving – particularly when accelerating? If so, it’s likely that there is a leak in the exhaust system. It is very important that you have this looked at and repaired.
The noise itself is not the issue, but there is a chance that exhaust gases could infiltrate the passenger compartment. Exhaust gases contain the highly dangerous Carbon Monoxide. Only the tiniest amount could greatly affect concentration and reaction times. You could end up feeling dizzy, nauseated and tired. In higher concentrations, you and any passengers could be dead within a matter of minutes.
Rattling, pinging or hammering sounds coming from the bonnet?
No, none of them sound very healthy, do they? These sounds are all related to combustion issues – namely detonation, pre-ignition and spark knock, which, if left unchecked, can all be very bad news.
Loud tapping or knocking sound coming from the engine?
This could be from a carbon build-up in the engine but it could also be a faulty piston or loose bearing, both of which could destroy your vehicle’s engine. It is imperative that you pull over immediately and get it checked out.
If you have noticed any odd noises coming from your car, why not pop it along to M&BM Motors? We can give your vehicle a thorough once over to make sure there aren’t any issues as we head into the winter months.
Simply call M&BM Motors on 01375 379401 and we’ll do the rest!
