OK, you know that your car engine is running loud. The noise level is impossible to ignore … as much as you’d like to. However, there’s one important point which you may not be sure of: What exactly is causing it and will I need vehicle repair services?
Troubleshooting the cause of a loud car engine correctly will give you essential information to make an educated decision on how to solve the problem. That way, you’ll prevent further damage, keep your vehicle safe, and make sure you will be able to pass car inspection. So, in order to answer your question, “Why is my car engine so loud?” here are 5 common reasons.
Faulty Muffler
The first thing you should look for is a muffler problem. A worn-out or damaged muffler will definitely make your car run louder (although the sound won’t be coming specifically from the engine).
Besides the noise volume, other potential side effects of muffler trouble could be poorer gas mileage and increased fumes. This is a relatively minor issue compared to the others listed below. Do get it taken care of, though, to keep your car in good shape and improve your mileage.
Leaking Exhaust
When your engine starts to sputter or rumble, a leaky exhaust manifold could be the culprit, especially if you notice that the “Check Engine” signal has lit up. Exhaust leaks are very dangerous, due to both their extreme heat (which is capable of melting plastic parts) and the hazardous carbon monoxide gas they contain (which can seep into the passenger cabin and poison the occupants – perhaps fatally).
A leaking exhaust can also play havoc with your engine’s control systems, causing a loss of power, mileage or both. Get your car into the repair shop right away!
Worn Engine Bearings
When the engine bearings are starting to wear out, they will let you know it, loud and clear, in the form of a constant knocking sound under your hood. This is a fairly urgent problem because if the engine bearings give out completely, the engine is likely to seize up. While not an inexpensive or easy fix, go ahead and have a mechanic diagnose this issue and get your bearings replaced before you have to face a catastrophic engine failure.
Engine Needs Oil
A noise that sounds like rubbing or grinding will often signal that your engine is low on oil. If you own a newer model car, you may have been relying on the engine oil level monitor to warn you. However, the sensor might have stopped working correctly.
And in the case of an older vehicle, you need to keep track of the oil level yourself. Simply topping up or changing the oil is not complicated, but in the case of a suspected oil leak, your car needs a tuneup to avoid damage to its engine.
Old Torque Converter
Here is a problem that can occur only in automobiles with automatic transmissions. A failing torque converter will make a noticeable grinding sound when your vehicle is in gear. The issue may result from insufficient transmission fluid or from wear and damage to the needle bearings. In both cases, you will need professional inspection and transmission repair.
Fix your car and get it detailed!
Do you need to find out why your car engine is so loud? Any unusual noise from your engine is a cause for concern, while some can be downright dangerous.
Have your car inspected, diagnosed, and fixed by the technicians at Bemac. We will provide you with professional service and an honest estimate at any of our convenient Ottawa locations.
Together with tuneups and repair, we also offer expert, thorough vehicle detailing.
