You are all set for a long road trip. You have your seat adjusted just right, temperature perfect and your favorite road trip playlist on. Then it never fails to happen – the noise. From somewhere in the bowels of your vehicle, some random import car parts starts to click, click, click or rattle, rattle, thump. It’s maddening.

In most cases, the culprit is a loose item somewhere inside the car. A forgotten wrapper crinkles in the air conditioning stream or the seat belt clasp clinks against a coffee cup. Usually it’s nothing that a good cleaning can’t cure and that can wait till you get home or at least to the next rest stop. However, there are some noises that can’t be ignored.

Sometimes that annoying noise is a warning that it’s time to visit your import car repair shop. Certain ticks or squeals can signal a real problem. You have to train your ears to listen for the difference between the typical noises any car produces and the creaks and groans of a vehicle in trouble. Here are a few sounds you can’t afford to ignore.

Heavy Clunking

A heavy clunking or thumping sound can be the signal that something is wrong in several areas. It can be anything from the shocks to a failing universal joint on the drive shaft. Check your trunk for anything weighty that might have shifted or bumped while the car was moving before you go to the import auto service technician. If the trunk doesn’t hold the answer, see your mechanic.

Metal on Metal Grinding

The braking system is a delicately balanced series of parts working in concert with one another. It should operate with a minimum of racket considering friction is its main method of operation. If you hear a metallic grinding or a metal-on-metal squeal, you should have your mechanic take a listen. Your brake pads may have worn out.

If the pads are worn through, you’ll need a brake job right away. Worn brake pads can leave the rotors vulnerable to damage. A brake failure could also be on the horizon if the pads are not given proper attention.

Hissing in the Engine

If you hear a snake-like hissing coming from the engine, your car might be in trouble. This sound may be heard while driving or after the car has stopped. If you hear hissing coming from your engine, very carefully lift the hood and look for steam and any evidence of leaks. Check under the car as well.

This noise can have more than one source. It could be an overheated engine or a leaky cooling system. The antifreeze may be leaking if you smell something sweet when you open the hood. Either one will necessitate a visit to the repair shop.

Acceleration Roar

There are people who love the roar of an exhaust system that has been altered. But if the exhaust is making that noise without intention, there is likely a problem. This noise may be your car’s way of telling you that you need a new muffler or pipes.

The noise itself isn’t harmful but the problem causing it can be quite dangerous. Carbon dioxide leaking from the exhaust system can endanger the driver and passengers. Just a little bit is enough to impair the driver’s alertness and skill level at the wheel. Dizziness, nausea and headaches are symptoms of exposure to too much CO2. A high enough concentration can even cause death.

Learn to listen to your car. Turn down the music every so often to listen for problems. If you hear a noise that can’t be accounted for by anything in the cab of your vehicle, you should probably schedule a visit to your European import repair shop.

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Article Source: EuroCare

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