Ever hear a strange noise coming from your car and wonder if it’s serious? We’ve all been there, and at Truman’s Automotive & ADAS Calibration, we know just how concerning it can be. Understanding the different noises your car makes can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Let’s dive into some common car noises, their possible causes, and the services available at our Des Moines location.
Squealing or Squeaking
Possible Causes:
- Brakes: One of the most common reasons for a squealing sound is your brake pads. This noise often indicates that the brake pads are worn out and need replacing.
- Belts: Another cause could be a loose or worn serpentine belt. This belt powers various engine components, and when it’s not in good condition, it can produce a high-pitched squeal.
Our Expertise: At Truman’s Automotive, we inspect and replace brake pads, ensuring your car stops safely. We also check all belts for wear and tear, replacing them to keep your engine running smoothly.
Knocking or Pinging
Possible Causes:
- Engine Issues: Knocking sounds from the engine could mean there’s a problem with the fuel mixture or timing, often due to using lower octane fuel than recommended.
- Rod Knock: This is a more severe issue that could indicate worn-out bearings.
Our Expertise: We diagnose engine sounds with precision. Whether it’s a simple fuel adjustment or something more complex like rod knock, our technicians will get to the root of the problem.
Rattling
Possible Causes:
- Exhaust System: A rattling noise might come from a loose exhaust component, such as a heat shield or a loose catalytic converter.
- Suspension: Loose or worn-out suspension parts can also cause rattling noises, especially when driving over bumps.
Our Expertise: Our team inspects the exhaust and suspension systems thoroughly. We tighten, replace, or repair any loose or damaged parts, ensuring a quiet and smooth ride.
Grinding
Possible Causes:
- Brakes: Grinding noises often indicate that brake pads are worn down to the metal, which can damage the rotors if not addressed immediately.
- Transmission: If you hear grinding when shifting gears, it might be a sign of transmission issues, such as worn gears or low transmission fluid.
Our Expertise: We provide comprehensive brake services, from pad replacement to rotor resurfacing. For transmission issues, we perform detailed diagnostics and repairs to keep your car shifting smoothly.
Humming or Whirring
Possible Causes:
- Wheel Bearings: A humming noise often points to worn-out wheel bearings, which are critical for wheel movement.
- Tires: Uneven tire wear can also cause humming noises, especially at higher speeds.
Our Expertise: We check and replace wheel bearings and ensure your tires are balanced and properly aligned. Regular maintenance helps prevent uneven tire wear and extends the life of your tires.
Why Choose Truman’s Automotive & ADAS Calibration?
At Truman’s Automotive, your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. Our experienced technicians use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify and fix issues accurately. Whether your car noises are from a minor repair or a major overhaul, you can trust us to provide top-notch car services in Des Moines.
Don’t ignore those strange car noises. Schedule an appointment with us and let our experts ensure your car runs smoothly and safely. Visit our website or call us to learn more about our services. Your car will thank you!