If you’ve ever worried about things that go thump in the night, just wait until you hear the noises your car makes. Some of them can send shivers up the spine of even the most dedicated car owner. Car noises can spell trouble for your vehicle, especially if they occur on a regular basis or grow louder. Here are some noises from your car engine that you should never ignore.
Squealing
Your car has different types of drive belts, like v-belts, serpentine belts, and timing belts. These belts move by the friction created with a pulley and are essential for transferring power from the engine to the various mechanical components like the alternator, water pump, air conditioner compressor, and power steering pump.
These systems are essential. The alternator delivers power to your car’s battery and electrical systems by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The water pump cools your car engine, the air conditioner compressor cools the cabin, and the power steering pump improves your car’s handling.
The drive belts running these components are made of rubber and wear out over time, causing the squealing sounds coming from under your car’s hood. If the squealing gets louder when you step on the accelerator, you need to replace these belts.
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