When your car starts making a strange noise, it usually is an indication a repair is needed.
Noises can range from clicks, clunks, grinds, moans and squeaks. If your car is making a sound it never made before, you should have it checked. Proactivity usually will keep the repair costs down, or, at least, you can determine the cost of the repair, and set a budget to have it fixed.
So, what can different noises mean? Unfortunately, the list is endless. The best choice is to have the vehicle inspected, and find out exactly what is causing your specific noise to happen. Most shops will perform an inspection for free, or a minimal charge.
If your steering pump starts to make a whining noise, it most likely is due to a low fluid level. When the fluid level becomes low, you should have it checked for a leak. The steering system is made up of three major components, which are the pump, the gear and the lines. Any one of these can develop a leak. If the leak is not corrected in a timely manner, other steering components can be damaged, and the repair costs can go up dramatically.
A clunk in the suspension can be as simple as a worn out rubber bushing. Every component in the suspension system uses bushings to hold it tight and allow the suspension to move. Due to our extreme temperatures, the rubber dry rots over time and starts to come apart. Replacing the bushings can alleviate the need to replace more expensive components in the future.
Brake noise is sometimes the hardest to eliminate. Grinding during braking is almost always an indication of worn out pads. However, squeaking can be anything from inferior pad material to road debris caught in the braking system. If your brakes are squeaking, have them inspected. Most service shops do brake inspections at no charge.
H and I Automotive is located at 5338 E. Main St. We have been servicing the East Valley since 2009. Our Automotive Service Excellence Certified Master Technicians will give your vehicle a thorough inspection, and make only those recommendations required to make your vehicle safe and reliable.
So, next time you hear something that just isn’t quite right, give us a call at (480) 985-9279, or visit our website at
www.handiautomotive.com.