How to Detect Automotive Failure With Your Ears

While driving, one might hear nothing but the purring of their car engine and the clicking of their turn signal. But there are times when a person can experience another set of noises they have never heard before; or ones that certainly startle. Such noises are not desirable, as they may portend the certainty of repairs and maintenance work ahead. But not to worry; most car noises, like thumping, crackling, grinding, and squeaking, are perfectly resolvable. The first step is to diagnose the cause of the noise or noises, and there are three very common noises that are related to a number of common repairs.

Continue reading to learn the top 3 most common car noises, how to listen for them, and what they might mean in terms of auto repair and service.

Engine Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Engine Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Car Noises That Indicate a Problem

Metal Grinding

If you are hearing metal on metal grinding sounds coming from somewhere in your car, this could possibly be the brakes.  Brakes are made up of balanced parts, each with a particular path that allows them to harmoniously work together toward a common goal of stopping the car. If any of these parts are worn or off-set, it can create noises that sound like grinding. This means your car is probably in need of some new brake pads, or possibly even some new rotors. It is always best to have a certified technician take a look to be sure what the catalyst for the noise really is. 

Aggressive Clunking

If you are suddenly hearing a heavy thumping or clanging sound coming from your vehicle, there is no telling whether or not it’s a serious or complex repair without further investigating some areas. These sounds could be occurring for a number of reasons, such as worn out or broken joints on a drive shaft and bad shocks. On the minor side, sometimes you just have something really heavy in your trunk and you keep hitting bumps on the road. Check your trunk, and if it turns out that’s not the issue, contact an auto repair shop to investigate further for you.

Whistling Engine Noise

This is not like the whistle of a train or trolley, but more like a hissing sound seeping out of your engine.  Sometimes this sound is followed by heavy steam coming from the engine and can even last after the car is turned off. The root of the whistling can be a variety of reasons, from cooling system leaks to overheated engines. Again, it is best to check with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately.  You do not want to risk a faulty repair job on your only means of transportation!

Concerned about the noises and sounds coming from your car or truck? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for engine repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 317-475-1846

Top 4 Signs Your Car Needs Radiator Repair

When your car begins to experience any type of automotive defect, it will tell you. As for diagnosing a cooling system issue, the same affect applies. In fact, you can easily spot the signs of radiator failure early on, as they tend to present themselves right away.  

Continue reading to learn the top 4 signs that indicate a cooling system malfunction or breakdown, as well as where to get car radiator repair in Indianapolis.

Car Radiator Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Car Radiator Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

How to Detect Car Radiator Failure

The radiator is an important component in your vehicle and a primary part of your car’s cooling system. Its job is to keep the engine from overheating, which is vital for optimal safety and performance. If your car’s radiator begins to show signs of needed repair, it is wise to have it serviced by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible. Catching a small problem early on is a cost-effective method of routine car maintenance and repair.

Here are the top 4 signs to look for if you suspect that your vehicle’s radiator might be the underlying problem behind your car troubles:

Low Coolant

If you begin to notice that your coolant is always running low, or your “low coolant” light comes on, it may be due to a radiator leak. Although it can be tempting to simply refill and forget about it, it is important to put your schedule aside and have your radiator inspected by a licensed Indianapolis IN mechanic. A radiator leak can be dangerous for many reasons, so it is necessary to repair them if one exists.

Coolant Leak

If you notice coolant on the ground beneath your vehicle, you have a coolant leak. Coolant leaks are caused by a leak in the radiator. Radiator fluid, known as coolant, flows through the engine and the radiator, so if it is dripping onto the ground, it is a sure sign that the radiator has a crack or opening somewhere. A professional auto repair shop in Indianapolis can accurately locate radiator leaks with a specialized test using pressure and dyes.

Discolored Coolant

Radiator fluid should be yellow, red, or green at all times. However, when the cooling system begins to go bad, the fluid can start to turn to rusty or oily colors, such as black or brown. Overtime, this oily fluid turns into sludge inside the radiator, which prevents the coolant from flowing properly. When this happens, it slows performance and reduces efficiency. Unfortunately, a radiator will need to be replaced if sludge gets inside.

Overheating Engine

Since the radiator’s job is to regulate the temperatures produced inside an engine, it is no surprise that an overheating car engine is a very common sign of radiator failure. If the engine overheats just one time, it could be due to something minor like being low on coolant. But if your engine is overheating regularly, it could be a more serious repair. The more times you allow your engine to overheat, the more damage is done to your vehicle. It is important to get them repaired as soon as possible before they can get worse.

Are you looking for a trusted car mechanic for help with your cooling system issue? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for radiator repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Be sure to check out all our automotive service coupons and discounts too!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846