· 5 min read
Strange noises and what they usually mean
Describing a noise well helps a technician find the problem faster. Here is the vocabulary that matters.
Squealing when braking
Often worn pads, glazed friction material, or a wear indicator doing its job. It can also be dust or light surface rust after a wet night, which clears after a few stops. Grinding, on the other hand, usually means the friction material is gone and rotors are being damaged.
Clunks over bumps
Suspension and steering components — sway bar links, bushings, ball joints, or worn struts. These affect alignment and tire wear, so they rarely stay a small problem.
Humming that changes with speed
A hum or growl that rises with road speed often points to a wheel bearing or an unevenly worn tire. If it changes when you steer gently side to side, a bearing is the likely culprit.
Clicking when turning
A rhythmic click in tight turns is a classic worn CV joint symptom, often accompanied by a torn boot that let the grease out.
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