That Doesn't Sound Right. . . . What These 4 Noises from Your Engine Could Mean
You know exactly how the engine in your Volkswagen vehicle should sound, so it can be troubling when things sound different. We've written an article about what could be causing a knocking sound, but knocking is only one of the noises that might spell trouble for your VW.
At Archer Volkswagen, we want to make sure that you have information that can help you get the most out of your VW car or SUV. With that in mind, we've listed five common engine noises and some of the things that may cause them below. Keep in mind that this isn't a comprehensive list; if your VW is making an odd sound, it's best to have it looked at by authorized technicians as soon as possible.
4. Whirring
A loud whirring sound in the engine could be due to a problem with the radiator fan or the water pump. In addition to a loud whirring, trouble with these components may also lead to an overheating engine. However, whirring is one of the trickier engine noises to diagnose. There are several spinning components that can whir when they're thrown out of whack, and the reverberating sound can be hard to pinpoint. Because of this, it's best to have it looked at by a professional.
3. Hissing
In nature, hissing is usually a warning sound (think of cats and snakes). The same holds true in the automotive world. A hissing sound from the engine could indicate a coolant or oil leak. As the fluid lands on the hot engine, it may hiss as it evaporates. A hissing sound could also be due to steam coming from the radiator. In either case, the engine is in danger of overheating.
2. Loud Rumbling
If the sound of your engine suddenly gets a lot louder, there's likely a problem with the muffler. Not only can this noise bother the neighbors, but it's also illegal. If you can hear over the engine's roar, you may also notice a thumping or rattling sound, which may be due to broken muffler components. If the muffler is punctured or otherwise damaged, it's best to have it repaired or replaced right away.
1. Whining or Squealing
Whining is another sound you don't want to hear outside of a car--and you certainly don't want to hear it coming from the engine, either. Depending on when you hear the whining, it could have different causes. A whining noise that shows up when you accelerate is often due to a transmission that needs maintenance. Whether the gears are worn or the transmission fluid is low, a bad transmission can cause this kind of whining.
However, if you hear whining when the car turns, it's not likely a transmission problem. Instead, that may be a sign of either a bad power steering pump, a loose steering belt, or wheel bearings that are wearing down.
If you hear a consistent squeal, it could be due to a loose belt elsewhere in the engine. Whatever the cause, it should be addressed immediately.