3 engine sounds that require immediate attention

For those of us who aren’t entirely familiar with cars, the vehicles we drive every day can be a bit of a mystery. With the abundance of sounds that come out of cars, it can be difficult to determine which are perfectly normal and which are indicative of serious trouble. To help you decipher the car noises you may hear, we’ve come up with a list of the more serious ones. Read on to gain an understanding of the sounds you need to worry about so you can take immediate action if they crop up. 

1. Engine knocking

If you’re driving along your route to work and suddenly hear a knocking sound, it’s probably coming from inside the engine of your car. Engine knocking is a clunking sound, much like the sound of someone banging on a door. It ranges in volume, so it may be hard to miss or barely noticeable.  A noise like this can be alarming, but you don’t have to panic. Your vehicle is alerting you to a problem, making you aware so that you can take steps to repair it. In the case of engine knocking, the issue may be one of the following: 

Broken spark plugs 

Spark plugs are a small tool that makes a huge difference in your vehicle. A spark plug is a small electrical device that generates a spark inside the engine of a car. This spark is part of what allows a vehicle to move. So, as you can imagine, a faulty spark plug can become a major headache for drivers. If your spark plugs are aging and/or no longer functioning as they should, it can lead to ignition failure. This, in turn, may cause engine knocking.

Luckily, spark plugs are small and inexpensive, so replacing them isn’t a costly procedure. If you feel comfortable enough, the swap can actually be made at home with only a few simple tools. If you’d rather a professional do the job, you can stop by your local auto shop and let them know your spark plugs need replacing. Once your car has been rejuvenated with fresh spark plugs, the knocking should vanish, and your engine should be back to working at full power.

Low-octane fuel 

We all like to cut costs where we can. However, sometimes spending more can result in better quality. This is true of cars that require high-octane fuel. If a driver decides to fill their high-octane vehicle with cheaper, low-octane fuel, they may hear an engine knock sooner rather than later. Using low-octane fuel where it isn’t appropriate can damage your car’s engine, and a car will be sure to let you know that it’s suffering. Check your owner’s manual for information on what fuel is necessary, and add the appropriate kind next time you’re due for a fill-up.

2. Engine sputtering

Of all the potential noises your engine might make, sputtering may be the one the most people are familiar with. There’s more than one problem that can lead an engine to sputter, and a trained technician can help you narrow the options down until you find the culprit. 

Low gas 

If you hear your engine sputtering, a lack of gas is the most likely reason. Gas is what propels an engine, and you can think of sputtering like the sound of your car gasping for air. If you fill your tank and find there’s no longer a sputtering sound, then there’s probably no need for any further concern. 

Exhaust leak 

When a hole or tear appears in a vehicle’s exhaust system, it can pose a danger for anyone riding in your car. This is because toxic fumes will leak into the cabin, affecting passengers rather than exiting from the exhaust pipe as they should. The smell of fumes, as well as a sputtering sound, can be signs that an exhaust leak is occurring. If you suspect your vehicle has an exhaust leak, visit an auto shop right away. It is very unhealthy to inhale the fumes that may be invading your car. 

Bad spark plugs 

If faulty spark plugs don’t cause a knocking sound, your engine might start sputtering instead. Refer to the above section to learn about the process for replacing this car part.

3. Engine grinding

The sound of an engine grinding can be painful on the ears. If you hear this unpleasant noise coming from your car, it may be due to one of the following: 

Piston and/or cylinder problems 

Pistons and cylinders are two key car parts that help a vehicle's wheels move. If they’re worn or lack lubrication, they may emit a grinding sound when they rub against one another. Lubricating or replacing these components can help eliminate the grinding sound. 

Clogged air filters 

All cars are equipped with air filters to protect engines from debris that may cause damage. When these filters become clogged with dust, dirt, insect parts, or other material, they’ll struggle to work properly and may cause grinding sounds. Removing the air filter and cleaning it should resolve this problem.

Shop Transwest

If you’re in need of a brand-new vehicle, look no further than Transwest. We sell a wide range of durable cars and trucks, and our knowledgeable employees can answer any and all car purchasing questions. Stop by a Transwest location today or explore our products online.