7 Engine Sound You Can't Ignore (& Their Meaning)

Does it ever feel like you need to be a sound expert to figure out what’s wrong with your car? Many things can go wrong when there are so many moving parts. From squealing to grinding, it’s important you know how to discern the different sounds your car engine is making. 

One part you don’t ever want any strange noises coming from is the engine. It happens. It is possible to save your engine by quickly diagnosing the issue. This article will explain 7 commonly heard engine noises in your car and tell you why they are there. 

These are the Car Engine Sounds You Must Not Ignore

1. You can squeal

There has never been a time when squealing was good outside the automobile realm. It is a sign that the engine is working properly. This annoying sound can usually be attributed to loosening or worn-out serpentine belts.

This belt manages all accessories to the engine, including the water pump and alternator. Because of its importance, you don’t want to ignore the need for a replacement. 

Your car may be making a squealing sound for other reasons. If it’s not coming from the engine area, but rather when you turn, your issue might be in the steering system instead. If you feel the brakes squeal when you brake, it might be time to change your pads. 

RELATED : 7 Warning Signs That You Are a Serpentine Belt Problem

2. Tapping/Clicking

There’s a distinctive sound that the car engine makes when the oil is low. The sound is similar to a clicking, ticking, or tapping noise. This condition is easy to identify. Just look at your dipstick.

You could also add more oil to the problem. Unfortunately, oil can only be used temporarily. But, it is important to understand why oil levels are low. 

Leakage, whether internal or exterior, can lead to low oil levels. 

If the oil looks clean, it could be a problem with your valvetrain. These serious issues should be addressed immediately. 

3. Grind

While there are many car systems that make grinding sounds, the problem could not be seen if you focus on your engine. Worn-out bearings may also cause this sound. You will notice the grinding sound while driving and idling if this is true.

The most likely cause of a grinding sound when shifting is a worn out clutch. A bad CV joint, or other suspension issue can cause grinding. 

When the brake pads have worn out, it is the worst grinding sound. This is when you know the brakes have gone to their limit. 

Whether you hear grinding from the engine or other car components, it’s a serious sound that shouldn’t be taken lightly. You should immediately take your car in to the local shop for service. 

4. Knocking

The engine may make an audible ping or metallic sound when it is running. This is called detonation sound.

When the mixture of fuel and air in one cylinder is detonating simultaneously at several locations, this can happen. It’s possible that you put the wrong octane fuel into the system, which can cause this problem. 

It can be due to a poor timing, lean fuel, or damaged knock sensors. It is important to immediately address any knocking sound before more engine damage can be caused. 

Related: 6 Reasons Your Car's Engine is Knocking Or Pinging

5. Loud Banging

We’ve all heard it once in our lives – that distinctive explosion sound that reminds you of fireworks. A backfire is a condition that occurs when the fuel has not been burned in its combustion chamber. It occurs when the fuel wasn’t burned in the combustion chamber and escapes. 

It combusts instead in the exhaust after it has moved beyond the combustion chamber. A backfire could occur if the ratio of fuel/air becomes too high or low. Your car is at greater risk if it backfires. 

6. Hissing/Sizzling

A leak could occur if you experience a popping or sizzling sound after the engine is shut down. It could be oil or coolant leaking onto an engine part. 

The leak could be visible on the exhaust manifold. Or it might be more difficult to locate. Sometimes it could be just a line of vacuum. It doesn't matter what the cause, it should be fixed immediately, particularly if your engine starts to heat up. 

RELATED: 6 Symptoms of a Vacuum Leak & Causes

7. Popping

Popping sounds can be caused by a variety of factors. Engine hesitation can be caused by many conditions that affect your car's performance.

Engine popping can be caused by a blocked fuel filter, ignition problems, clogged spark plugs, dirty spark plugs, or damaged wires. These fixes can be done quickly and are inexpensive. Others, like the catalytic converter will cost more. 

Repair Costs

Whatever noise you are hearing, it’s vital to have it diagnosed immediately. If the issue is not addressed immediately, it could result in irreversible engine damage. It is usually possible to make minor repairs if you have engine noises.

A replacement is required if the engine has been damaged beyond repair. 

But, it is very expensive to buy a brand new engine. For most people, it’s better to purchase a remanufactured engine. A warranty with the new engine will be required if your car is older. 

An engine used and labor costs $1,500 to install. Installing new engines is going to cost you $3,000 and up. An expensive new Ford V10 engine will cost $5,000. However, there are some cars that don’t cost as much. The engine alone for a Ford Focus might cost you $500. This does not include labor. You will pay a higher price for a diesel engine.