Step by step :sound squeaks

Many have been here, you start up your car in the morning and before your hand reaches the volume dial on the stereo to crank up your favourite morning radio show, you hear a squeaking noise coming from your car. A car shouldn’t make that noise, yet yours is. And it sounds bad. But is it that bad? Questioning the severity of the sound is a smart immediate response, because the difference between a squeaky joint and near catastrophic engine failure can be a big one.

In some cases, a sound could mean that you need to rush to the mechanic, while others only require you to make an appointment for later in the month. Many squeaking noises are created when metal is contacting metal and a linear motion is introduced or when rubber is forced over a metal pulley.

In general, a squeaking noise is trying to tell you there is a problem somewhere in the car. When metal is forced against each other combined with a linear motion a harmonic vibration (squeak) is created that is sometimes audible. In any squeak situation the location of the squeak is sometimes the hardest task to determine. However, there are some usual suspects for squeaks and in simple steps you can know where they are coming from and have them fixed.

1 Check the V-Belt: This is the most common squeak and is evident when you start a car that has been seated for a while say in the morning. See the primary belt function is to supply power to the steering system, water pump, air conditioner and alternator.

A V-Belt tensioner is designed to hold a defined amount of pressure on the drive belt. This tension is needed for belt friction to drive various accessories such as an alternator and water pump.

When the belt loses tension, a squealing noise is heard, especially on acceleration because it will not be able to move at the same tempo as the pulleys which control it. Many times this belt is simply giving way and needs replacement. Remember when this belt breaks, you are stuck, literally.

2 Check the brake pads: Most brake pads are designed with a warning sensor that creates noise when the brakes are depressed or when the car is in motion without the brakes applied.

While driving, this design informs the driver with a squeaking noise when the brake material has worn down to the minimum thickness and needs replacement. The brake pads noise sensor is also designed to protect the brake rotor from unnecessary damage. Replace the pads when you hear this sound from the pads.

Cheap brake pads. The brake pads and rotors that are original equipment on your car are manufactured with high quality metals and brake lining material. There are many aftermarket manufacturers that create sub standard brake components. These cheap brake parts can squeak and will squeak and wear out prematurely.

These parts are generally manufactured with inferior materials that will delivery less performance and durability. Always get good quality pads as they are quieter and last longer.

If you just had your brake pads replaced, sometimes a bad job could have them squeak where the pad is not perfectly seated on the rotor as the manufacturer intended. They simply need proper fixing.

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