Squeaking Noise While Driving But Not When Brakes Applied: Ways to Solve
Are you facing a “squeaking noise while driving but not brakes applied”? Generally, this problem occurs when the car is running and is not static. There are instances when your car makes a squeaking noise. It is something that you must not ignore. However, the reasons for this problem can be many.
In this article, you will learn why your car makes a “squeaking noise while driving but not brakes applied.” Apart from that, the article will also discuss different instances when a car might make a squeaking noise. Finally, you will learn how to prevent your car from making a squeaking noise.
Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
Are You Facing: Squeaking Noise While Driving But Not When Brakes Applied?
If your car is making a squeaking noise when you are driving (but not applying brakes), it means that something is wrong with your steering system. Basically, you hear a grinding noise while you are driving your car.
Although this is not a serious problem with your car, you must still not ignore it. In fact, if you repair them soon, it must be relatively easy for the mechanic to identify the problem and repair it.
Apart from that, the noise might be due to minor issues like wear and tear in brake pads and serpentine belts. Generally, these are easy to fix. However, in some cases, a squeaking noise can also mean bigger problems, but it happens in rare situations. For instance, you must not ignore it if it is a problem with the suspension or the power steering system.
Actually, car squeaking is an early warning signal that your car is giving that something is wrong. Hence, it is always a better idea to take your car to an expert car mechanic. If you fail to act quickly, it can either result in a bigger bill or worse (a car malfunction and eventually an accident).
Why Is Your Car Making a Squeaking Noise?
There can be many reasons why your car is making a squeaking noise while you are driving. Hence, you must be serious when the car starts to squeak.
The following are the major reasons why your car is making a “squeaking noise while driving but not when brakes applied”:
- You need to top up your car fluid.
- There might be an issue with the serpentine belt.
- The car might have worn bearings.
- There must be a cambelt failure, or the water pump pulley might not work well.
- The brake pads must be damaged, and hence, you might need to change them.,
- A problem might exist with the power steering.
- There might be an issue with the suspension system.
Different Instances of a Car Making Squeaking Noise
If you are not sure about your car making squeaking noise, let us discuss it in detail to understand it better. Here is a brief overview of different instances of your car making a squeaking noise:
1. When You Turn on the Ignition
If you receive a squeaking noise when you turn on the ignition, it means that the serpentine belt is making a sound. Basically, this item powers other things inside your car, like power steering, alternator, air conditioning, and fan.
The serpentine belt is also known as the fan belt or drive belt. In general, you will need to replace it after every 50K miles (due to wear and tear).
2. Squeaking Alternator Pulley
The serpentine belt spins the alternator with the help of the alternator pulley. Here, the alternator helps to convert the mechanical energy to electrical energy. This charges the car’s battery.
In this case, if you lubricate and clean the alternator pulley, it will stop the squeaking noise. As a result, the serpentine belt will run smoothly operate.
3. Noise Around the Cambelt
The cambelt is the timing belt that controls your car engine’s timing. It does so by synchronizing the camshaft and the crankshaft. Actually, it is an important part of your car engine because the crankshaft and the camshaft help to convert the energy of the engine, which leads to the movement of the car.
Once you cover 40K miles with your engine, you must consider changing your cambelts. However, the car’s make, and model also determine the need for change. Generally, when cambelts become worn out or loose, they produce a squeaking noise.
Also, it is dangerous for the cambelt to snap. This can produce serious damage to the car. Therefore, you need to maintain it as time passes.
4. The Water Pump Pulley Is Making a Sound
You can also hear a squeaking noise while driving when the water pulley makes it. This pulley is connected to the water pump, which helps to cool the engine down. It is also connected to the serpentine belt.
If the water pulley becomes loose, it produces a squeaking sound. In this case, you either need to tighten it or replace it. However, if the water pump has worn bearings, it can also produce squeaking noise.
5. Squeaking While Speeding Up or Slowing Down
If you hear a squeaking noise while speeding up, it is due to a worn-out serpentine belt. Hence, in this case you need to replace it. Generally, when cracks develop in the belt, the belt does not run smoothly.
Basically, if your car is old, it consists of a V-belt. It is better that you replace it with a new one. For instance, since the 1970s, car manufacturers have started to install longer serpentine belts in new models.
On the other hand, if you hear the noise while you drive slowly, it is also probably because of an issue with the serpentine belt. Apart from that, it can also be a problem with your breaks.
6. Squeaking Sound When You Turn the Steering Wheel
There can be various reasons why you hear a squeaking sound while turning the steering wheel. Here are some reasons to consider:
- You need to top up the power steering fluid since it is low.
- The power steering fluid must be contaminated.
- It can be a problem with the power steering pump.
- You might need to lubricate the steering component.
- Probably, the steering wheel housing is colliding with the interior trim.
Hence, when you hear a squeaking noise when you turn your car, you need to check your power steering fluid. However, if it seems okay, take it to an expert car mechanic.
7. Squeaking Sound When You Press the Brakes
When you hear a squeaking sound after you press the brakes, it is a sure sign that something in your car needs a replacement. The following are some of the major reasons why a car brake produces a squeaking sound:
- Brake pads: You need to replace worn-out brake pads since they are crucial for effective braking. This is because they create friction to stop the vehicle.
- Rotors: These are circular disks that are present on each wheel that you press the brake pads against. If it gets worn out, you need to replace it.
- Brake Calipers: These consist of brake pads and pistons. Hence, if there are problems with the brake calipers, replace them soon.
8. Noise from the Suspension
As your car ages, you will hear squeaking noises from your suspension. It is a common phenomenon. Due to bumps and imperfections on the road, the suspension system absorbs vibrations and shocks. This is to ensure a smooth ride.
To deal with a squeaking noise in the suspension system, it is better to lubricate. This greases up the system. However, in rare cases, you might need to replace the suspension or a part of it.
How to Prevent Your Car from Squeaking?
The best way to keep your car from squeaking is to lubricate it from time to time. Apart from that, you need to check the following as well:
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
- Engine oil
- Clutch fluid
Also, it is easy to top up the fluids of your car. However, you must follow the instructions in your car manual. If you cannot do so, it is better to take your car to an expert mechanic who knows how to do it and will find problems with your car.
Summing Up
If you hear a squeaking noise while driving but no brakes are applied, it can be due to various reasons. Find out what you are facing from this article and take steps to solve it. However, if you do not feel confident to resolve the issue yourself, take your car to an expert mechanic.
Do you have more suggestions for dealing with the squeaking noise of a moving car? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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