Car noises are irritating, and can be one of the clues that your car is in trouble.
You have to carefully focus to be able to tell where the noise is coming from.
The noise will be difficult to hear because it travels along the body of the car.
If you have a noise coming from under the hood when the car is stopped and the engine is running, then it is usually an engine or exhaust problem.
If the noise is coming when the car is in motion, it usually signals a transmission, axle, tires, or suspension problem.
Squealing Under Hood If you hear a squealing sound coming from underneath your hood, you probably have a loose or glazed belt.
Spray the belts with aerosol belt dressing and see if the noise stops.
If it does then either tighten your belt or replace it if it is glazed.
Accessory bearings that are worn out can also be the cause of a squeal.
Remove the accessory's belt and test to see if the noise goes away.
If it does, adjust and refit the belt.
Clunking Sounds If your car is making a clunking sound when decelerating or accelerating, this usually indicates worn universal joints in the drive shaft.
If the problem is not the joints, then you are usually looking at rear axle wear.
Roaring Underneath Body of Car If you hear a loud roar when accelerating your car, you may have a problem with your exhaust system.
Check for any holes and patch them.
You could also have broken or loose clamps that have separated pipe joints.
Braking Noises If your car squeals when you press the brakes, your brakes are usually worn out.
Replace the front brake shoes.
If the car clunks when you mash the brake pedals, there could be several reasons.
The brake calipers may be loose, worn tires, loose suspension parts, or even defective shocks.