Strange and unusual noises can be a nightmare for car owners because they often indicate that something within your vehicle is not working as it should. If you hear noises from your Honda Civic, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take that will fix the most common causes of unusual sounds.
Drive the vehicle and listen for any distinct clunking noises being emitted from the car. Clunking could be caused by any number of problems. Check the lug nuts on your wheels to make sure they are properly tightened; also check to see if the brake pads or brake calipers are loose. Check the engine mount to make sure the engine is being properly held in place. If there is space between the rubber and metal mounts holding the mount together, the mount will need to be replaced.
Accelerate the vehicle and listen for any howling noises. If you hear odd howling noises, check the tire wear pattern. A worn tire can cause howling as you drive. Also check the condition of the air injection pump and system. You will need to remove the check valves and blow through them both ways. Air should only be able to pass through the valve in one direction if the valve is working properly.
Apply the brakes and listen for any sounds. If you hear a loud squealing when you apply the brake, this is a good indication that your brake shoes or brake pads have been worn down. Check the brake pads and shoes, and replace them if necessary. If the noise was more of a clunk than a squeal, check your brake calipers to make sure they have not come loose.
Listen for any clicking noises as you drive, or when the engine is idling. If you hear a clicking noise, check to make sure the brake caliper and pads are properly tightened, as well as the wheel lug nuts. If the source of the noise is your engine, check the engine oil level to make sure it is properly filled. Dirty oil can also cause clicking noises in your vehicle.
Employ a friend to sit in the rear seat of the car and listen for any squeaking noises. Squeaks can be very difficult to trace and will require a keen ear. Because squeaks are often caused by metal contacting metal, check the brake pad warning sensor to see if the brake pads need to be replaced. Also, check the tension on the serpentine belt; a loose belt will cause a loud squeaking noise, especially upon acceleration.
