Common Car Noises and Their Causes

Is your Mazda car making weird sounds? It’s important to know what these may mean and why getting quick Mazda service is vital:

Squealing or Grinding While Braking

If you hear a squealing sound when you step on the brakes, this is warning signal telling you that your brake pads are wearing down. If there’s a grinding noise, this probably means that they have already worn completely down and the calipers are rubbing against the rotors. In this instance, you need to have this taken care of immediately.

Thudding From the Tires

If a thudding noise is coming from your tires, this is generally one of two things. First, it could mean that one or more of them is underinflated. If adding air doesn’t solve the problem, there’s a good chance that the alignment is off.

Screeching From Under the Hood

If what you’re hearing sounds like a banshee has gotten under your hood, this is probably related to your serpentine belt. It may be loose or getting worn out. And because the belt plays an important role with a variety of systems – including the water pump and alternator – it needs to be addressed quickly.

Rattling, Hissing, or Chugging

If you hear any of these things, most likely something is up with your exhaust system. Rattling may mean it is misaligned. Hissing is often a symptom of a crack. And if you hear chugging, this could indicate some sort of blockage.

When something is wrong with your car, putting off any repairs or replacements will only make things worse. If your vehicle needs to be looked at, make an appointment with the service center at Superior Mazda in Bentonville.