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SYMPTOM: THE BRAKES SQUEAL WHEN THEY ARE APPLIED Description of problem: As you apply the brake pedal, a squealing noise is heard from either the front or rear of the car. For the most part, the brakes work fine. Sometimes the squeal is accompanied by a pull to one side. This information helps identify the exact cause of the problem. This problem is noticed gradually. In fact, sometimes the squealing stops, but this doesn't mean the problem has gone away.
PROBABLE CAUSES: 1. There is dirt on the brake rotors, drums, pads, and/or shoes. 2. The brake pads and/or shoes are worn. 3. The brake pads were overheated and are now glazed. 4. The disc brake calipers were mounted incorrectly or have come loose. 5. The wear indicator on the pads are contacting the rotor. SYMPTOM: SQUEALING FROM ENGINE WHILE ACCELERATING Description of problem: An irritating squeal is heard as you accelerate, turn a corner, or slow down. You may also notice that the noise is more frequent when the air conditioning is turned on. This type of problem gradually becomes more noticeable.
PROBABLE CAUSES: 1. The drive belts are slipping. 2. The drive pulleys for some engine accessories are misaligned. 3. You have turned the steering wheel to the limits. 4. The drive belts are loose. SYMPTOM: CLUNKING FROM UNDER THE CAR WHEN GEARS CHANGE Description of problem: When you shift gears (with an automatic or manual transmission), you feel a slight pause, then hear a clunk. The can sound like it is coming from the rear or front of the car. The noise may be evident when shifting from reverse to neutral, neutral to forward, or forward to reverse. The problem begins gradually and worsens with use.
PROBABLE CAUSES: 1. Worn CV-joints 2. Worn U-joints 3. The differential unit may have too much backlash. 4. The engine's idle speed may be set too high. SYMPTOM: CLUNKING FROM THE ENGINE THAT WORSENS WHEN ENGINE SPEED INCREASES Description of problem: When you press on the gas pedal, the engine makes a clunking noise. The noise increases as you press harder on the gas pedal. The noise is there whether you are in gear or in neutral. Sometimes the noise is not noticeable when you are letting the engine idle but occurs as soon as you press on the gas pedal. Normally, the problem begins gradually, but the noise may go unnoticed. As the problem worsens, the noise gets louder.
PROBABLE CAUSES: 1. Worn engine bearings. 2. Broken engine parts. 3. Loose or missing flywheel mounting bolts. |
