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What can cause tire noise?

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Imagine this: You’re driving down the road when you hear a noise, and it is noticeable. In fact, it might even be LOUD.

Maybe it occurs during specific scenarios, like when you’re traveling over a certain speed.

As you listen to the sound and try to figure out where it’s coming from, you might wonder if it’s the road you’re on. Or does it have something to do with your vehicle?

What you could be hearing is tire noise.

What can cause tire noises?

Tire noise can be the result of common problems, such as cupping, feathering and defects – like a slipped belt.

The underlying factors that may lead to those issues include driving conditions. You could get a slipped belt if you hit a pothole or it might be defective from the manufacturer.

Feathering tends to stem from the tire quality or not rotating your tires. Cheaper tires are more prone to feathering.

Cupping is a pattern across the tire. Usually, that can be a culmination of a lack of tire rotations and possibly worn out suspension components. 

Cupping on Honda Civic tires.
Cupping on Honda Civic tires.

What does bad tire noise sound like?

If we were to describe a bad tire noise it’s almost like when you’re driving over gravel. It could also feel like you’re traveling on a tar and chip road that’s not quite paved but it’s also not gravel – it’s somewhere in between. Those are loud roads. That’s kind of what tire noise sounds like.

Why is my tire noise so loud?

You’ve got vehicles that weigh a minimum of 3,000 pounds, and the first thing that touches the road is the rubber. So, you’ve got the primary load that all the energy directly goes down, and your first point of contact is the tire.

What sounds like tire noise but isn’t?

Sounds related to wheel bearings or brakes can resemble tire noise. When bearings start to lose their lubrication they might make a roaring noise that’s similar to a tire noise. They could be commonly mistaken for each other.

If you have rust spots or lips or something like that on the brake rotors, it can create a similar type of noise.

Usually, when we’re looking into certain sounds, we have to consider all three possibilities because the noise needs to be isolated.

Rotating tires on Chevrolet near Dale City Virginia.
Rotating tires on Chevrolet near Dale City Virginia.

How to tell the difference between tire noise and wheel bearing noise?

There are a few ways we can determine if the sound you’re hearing has to do with the wheel bearing or tires.

Tires are easy. If the noise is coming from the front or rear, you can rotate the tires and see if the sound follows. With the bearing, we take a stethoscope and put it on each of the bearings and see if one is distinct.

Sometimes, we’re able to decipher if it’s a tire or bearing noise by loading up the front of the vehicle. If you put all of the weight up front and it intensifies the sound, a lot of times that’s telling us it’s related to the tires.

With bearings, they may change pitch when you’re turning.

In some cases, you can throw the tires on the wheel balancer and see if any of the tires are out of round or grossly out of balance. 

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Performing leak diagnostics on a Chevrolet Cruze

In Automotive Diagnostics, Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

We don’t always know what we’re walking into when it comes to car leaks. 

Sometimes, leak diagnostics are cut and dry. At other moments, they can take automotive professionals down unexpected twists and turns.

It might appear as though one culprit is behind a leak, but further testing shows that it’s just a part of the problem or not involved at all.

What causes oil in a coolant reservoir?

The driver of a Chevrolet Cruze saw coolant leaking from the coolant reservoir.

We found oil in the coolant reservoir. Oil in a coolant reservoir could indicate an internal engine issue, such as a head gasket problem or a similar failure. 

When we added coolant to the reservoir, bubbling occurred. That would suggest that air or combustion gases were entering the cooling system, further hinting at gasket problems. 

The car passed the cylinder leak-down test and the combustion leak test. A combustion test can determine if there are exhaust gases in the coolant, which would confirm that the engine seals are failing or there are gasket breaches.

The reservoir cap was replaced, because we thought the old one wasn’t holding pressure and caused the coolant to overflow. However, the problem continued after the new cap was put in.

Is it a head gasket or oil cooler problem?

We left the cooling system pressurized at 18 PSI overnight. By morning, the pressure had dropped to 10 PSI.

When we took the Chevrolet Cruze for a test drive, it didn’t overheat and the fan operated as it should.

We ruled out problems with the head gasket and started looking into the engine oil cooler. It was determined that the oil cooler might be damaged, allowing oil to mix with the coolant and forcing pressure into the reservoir.

If there is an internal rupture, the pressure of the engine is higher than the pressure for the cooling system. That’s why there was oil in the reservoir.

After the oil cooler and exhaust gasket were replaced, the coolant temperature went up but the radiator hoses were cold. Coolant wasn’t circulating in the system.

The technicians installed a new water pump, cleaned the radiator hoses and thermostat housing, and performed multiple coolant fluid exchanges.

How do we diagnose oil leaks?

Not all leak diagnostics are this complex. However, tracking down the cause can involve multiple steps.

Our process is determined by the type of leak a vehicle has. 

When looking into oil leaks, we degrease and clean everything off. Then, we add ultraviolet dye to trace the leak.

Performing a block test on a Chevrolet Cruze.
Performing a block test on a Chevrolet Cruze

How do we perform leak diagnostics on the cooling system

The avenues we go down for coolant leaks depend on whether the leak is external or if coolant is going into other systems.

Our technicians begin with a visual inspection. Then, they conduct a pressure test, which encourages any external leaks to appear.

If there is a loss of coolant but no external leak, we perform tests, such as the block test.

A block test (also known as a “hydrocarbon test”) is a way to see if the cylinder head has been compromised. What we’re looking for is combustion fumes in the cooling system that would indicate a cracked block or leaking head gasket.

Based on what we learn from the tests performed, we should be able to identify which parts need to be replaced.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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What drive belt problems fail the Virginia State Inspection?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The condition of one part can determine whether certain systems function.

Drive belts are connected to components in the air conditioning system, the power steering system, the cooling system, and other areas. When something is wrong with the belt, those items could be impacted.

We check in on the drive belts whenever we’re working on a vehicle or conducting a Virginia State Inspection.

What does a drive belt do?

Drive belts help “drive” a few parts in the engine. Also called “serpentine belts”, you can find these belts around a vehicle’s alternator and water pump. 

In certain cases, drive belts also run the air conditioning compressor and power steering pump.

There are different kinds of drive belts, such as stretch belts, v belts, and dual drive belts.

Some vehicles have multiple drive belts. Older vehicles used to have up to 3, with each one running an accessory. 

The benefit to a three-belt system is that if your a/c compressor belt broke, you still have your alternator and power steering. However, this type of setup is incredibly inefficient.

If a serpentine belt breaks on today’s vehicles, you lose everything.

Drive belt wear on Land Rover.
Drive belt wear on Land Rover

What drive belt problems fail the state inspection in Virginia?

When it comes to drive belts, inspectors want to make sure they are in good working order.

A vehicle will fail the Virginia State Inspection if the belt is missing. Belts that are worn or lack good tension are other issues we look for.

What happens when a drive belt goes bad?

Over time, drive belts experience wear. Belts can develop cracks, or their grooves can morph from “v’s” to “u’s”.

Discolored belts are another issue we’ve seen and are caused by friction and heat.

If there’s something wrong with idler pulleys or drive belt tensioners, a belt could become loose.

Sometimes, drive belts slip off or break as a result of oil leaks or coolant leaks. When a drive belt breaks, whatever accessory it drives, no longer works.

Drive belt cut on Mazda CX-9.
Drive belt cut on Mazda CX-9

How to know if a drive belt needs replacing?

Automotive professionals can spot drive belt problems when looking over your vehicle. If you take your car to an auto repair shop that performs courtesy inspections, a technician should notice belt wear or other issues.

Belts, belt tensioners and idler pulleys are some of the parts we look over during courtesy checks, which are included in our oil changes. In addition to worn belts, we’ve seen belts coming off tensioners when looking over vehicles.

Drivers may hear a squeaking noise when the drive belt is wearing out.

Drive belt vs timing belt

A vehicle will be equipped with a drive belt and a timing belt or chain.

Timing belts are connected to the camshafts and crankshafts to make sure that the engine stays in time.

The timing belt or chain are on what we call “sprockets”. They have little teeth on them and fit together.

Meanwhile, the drive belt is operating the accessories to the vehicle. 

A drive belt is going to be on the outside of the engine, the outside of the timing cover. It’s going to run the power steering pump, your air conditioning compressor – if they’re not electric – and the water pump. And it’s all going to be driven off the crankshaft pulley or harmonic balancer.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Lake Ridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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How did an AC compressor problem cause a car to shut off?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Did you know that problems with your air conditioning system could impact how your car operates?

We saw this occur with a Nissan Rogue. The SUV was brought to our shop because it experienced a number of issues all at once.

When the driver was at a stoplight, they heard a crackling noise. Then, lights started coming on the dash and the vehicle cut off.

Why did a Nissan Rogue shut off at a stoplight?

Through diagnostic testing, one of our technicians learned that the air conditioning compressor was locking up, causing the engine to stall.

Why did this happen? Well, sometimes, when something is wrong with one component, it can have a domino effect.

On certain vehicles, the drive belt (also known as a serpentine belt), wraps around and runs the compressor. It also surrounds other parts, such as the alternator and water pump.

A compressor that locks up can create an additional load, which impacts the engine’s ability to operate at idle.

We recommended a new compressor, an air conditioning condenser with a dryer, and an expansion valve. While replacing these components, the technician installed a new belt and tensioners. The a/c lines were flushed, as well.

A/C Condenser and Receiver Drier Assembly.
A/C Condenser and Receiver Drier Assembly.

What is a compressor in a car?

The a/c compressor is one of several items in a car’s air conditioning system. The compressor is responsible for creating pressure.

How do I tell if my car AC compressor is bad?

If you have a bad compressor, the a/c wouldn’t work. You’ll still feel air blowing, but it won’t be cold.

The compressor can either electrically break down or experience an internal mechanical failure.

To confirm that the air conditioning compressor is bad, we test it to see if it’s working. Our technicians would send power and ground to make sure it’s getting power. 

A bad compressor won’t turn on and the clutch won’t engage.

How to tell if a compressor is locked up?

When a compressor locks up, you would hear a noise and either the belt breaks or it doesn’t. 

A locked up compressor will affect everything else that is on that assembly, such as the water pump and power steering (if the vehicle has hydraulic power steering). 

The cooling system can be impacted, too. If it’s bad enough, the vehicle could start to overheat, especially if the belt wasn’t on.

A car’s alternator might also experience problems, resulting in the battery light turning on.

If the belt breaks, drivers may notice a rubber smell.

Can you drive a car with a locked up AC compressor?

You might be able to drive your vehicle if the AC compressor locks up, but it depends on the setup. 

For some cars, the compressor is driven by an air conditioning belt. In this case, you just wouldn’t turn on the a/c system. You don’t have to have an AC belt on to drive a car. As long as nothing else is relying on that belt to turn, then it’s fine.

However, if the compressor locks up and it’s driven by the drive belt, eventually it will probably throw the belt.

In the case of the Nissan Rogue, the driver tried to start the vehicle at the light, but it kept stalling. So, there wasn’t any time for the belt to break.

If you believe your a/c compressor has locked up and aren’t sure if it’s driven by an AC belt or drive belt, reach out to an automotive expert.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dale City, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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What causes a windshield washer fluid leak?

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When you’re on vacation, running errands, or on the way to work, washer fluid can get rid of dirt, bugs and other smudges that collect on your windshield.

There may come a time where – for a variety of reasons – the windshield won’t clear up. When this happens, it can impact your ability to see and be a real nuisance.

A windshield washer fluid leak is one of the windshield problems you could run into.

What are windshield washer fluid leak symptoms?

Have you noticed that windshield washer fluid isn’t being released when you try to clear the windshield?

Sometimes, the fluid just needs to be topped off. But it’s also possible that your car has a windshield washer fluid leak.

Low windshield washer fluid can be another sign. You or a technician may have noticed the fluid level isn’t where it’s supposed to be. When looking over a Honda Accord, we found that the washer fluid was low.

You might also see washer fluid leaking from under the car towards the front (usually in front of the driver or passenger wheels). Typically, windshield washer fluid is blue. However, it can also be orange, green or purple.

If washer fluid is leaking down into the cowling area, the fluid could be smelled in the cabin.

Low windshield washer fluid on Honda Accord.
Low windshield washer fluid on Honda Accord

Why is windshield washer fluid leaking from under my car?

Did you notice that your vehicle has a windshield washer fluid leak? Washer fluid may be found under your car if something is wrong with certain parts.

You could have fluid leaking from a few areas, such as the reservoir, the pump, the lines or the nozzles.

Can I drive with leaking washer fluid?

Yes, you can drive a vehicle when the windshield washer fluid is leaking. 

But it’s a good idea to have the leak resolved as soon as you can.

How do I figure out where my washer is leaking?

Some customers will bring their vehicle in because they spotted a leak. In other cases, we will notice leaking washer fluid during a maintenance service or when addressing another problem.

If you think your windshield washer fluid is leaking, you can bring it to a nearby auto repair shop.

Our process for determining where washer fluid is leaking is pretty simple. We pop the hood, check the plumbing and tank, and add fluid. 

Rear washer fluid line leaking on GMC Yukon.
Rear washer fluid line leaking on GMC Yukon

What parts commonly cause washer leaks?

Windshield washer fluid leaks can spring up in a few places. The components that could cause washer leaks include:

  • Windshield washer fluid reservoir
  • Windshield washer hoses
  • Windshield washer nozzles
  • Windshield washer pump seal

Your reservoir that holds a majority of the washer fluid might get a crack in it, and the windshield washer pump has a seal that may leak.

You have very very flimsy windshield washer hoses that go up to your windshield washer nozzles. The hoses are probably the most common for leaking because they’re flimsy and can crack. We worked on a GMC Yukon where the rear washer fluid line was leaking.

We’ve also seen cracks develop in the nozzles themselves.

Whether you’ve noticed a symptom that points to a leak, or windshield washer fluid just isn’t hitting your windshield right, having an automotive expert look at the problem can give you much needed clarity.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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EVAP system problems: Why won’t my car let me fill it with gas?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Are you having trouble at the gas pump?

In rare cases, a car won’t let their driver fill it with gas.

Why is my Ford Fusion’s gas tank not filling up all the way?

We don’t often run across a car that won’t fill up with gas. However, this uncommon problem did occur on a Ford Fusion. Every once in a while, the driver couldn’t fill the tank up – whether it was close to empty or at half a tank.

Our technician didn’t find any codes in the scan tool. He confirmed the purge valve and vent valve were functioning and made sure the EVAP hoses and fuel filler neck weren’t clogged.

Using artificial vapor and a smoke machine, we are able to check for flow or a lack of it.

The fuel vapor canister was a little clogged. When we cleared it, it became unstuck.

We recommended filling the Ford Fusion with gas again to see if the issue continued. If it did, we would want to start by replacing the canister.

Fuel vapor canister on Ford Fusion.
Fuel vapor canister on Ford Fusion

What are reasons why a car won’t fill up with gas?

These are some items that could be behind a car to not fill up with gas:

  • Fuel vapor canister
  • Gas pump
  • Purge valve 
  • Vent valve

The purge valve and the vent valve all play a role. However, there is a filter inside the canister that gets clogged. The pressures of the vapor that are supposed to come up may not. 

On older cars, sometimes the flap won’t open up where the gas goes into the tank. The fuel pump has a big part to play, too. 

How do we figure out why a gas tank isn’t filling up?

Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) systems are tricky. They aren’t always as cut and dry as other car problems, such as engine misfires.

We start our diagnostics process by collecting some background information from the driver.

One question we ask customers when they say the gas tank won’t fill all the way up is, “Have you tried another gas pump?” Because pumps have regulating factors in them to shut themselves off. So, the gas pump and the car work together to measure pressure.

If a driver says, “I tried two different pumps and it did the same thing,” we verify that the access to the tank is free. 

Then, we confirm that all of the vapor canister components are working correctly. There are two or three different things that can play a factor in the gas tank not filling up.

What are common EVAP system problems?

A car not letting you fill it with gas isn’t the only issue you may experience.

Some common EVAP system problems include the smell of gas, any EVAP leaks in the plumbing, and the purge of pressure.

Certain symptoms can appear when there’s something wrong with the EVAP system, such as the check engine light coming on and a vehicle running rough at idle.

If you are experiencing any EVAP system problems – the car not filling up with gas, performance problems, warning lights, or abnormal smells – you will want to bring it to a trustworthy auto repair shop for diagnostic testing.

They will be able to have the knowledge and tools to track down what’s causing the issue.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Why did a Chevrolet fail the Vehicle Safety Inspection?

In Car Safety by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Sometimes, our technicians discover unexpected problems when looking over vehicles.

The driver may notice a noise or road manner that is rooted in something else, or they might not experience any issues.

A Chevrolet Express was brought in for a Vehicle Safety Inspection. During this process, we came across several safety concerns.

What brake problems can fail the Vehicle Safety Inspection?

There were a few issues with the braking system. Two of the brake pads measured below the 2/32 of an inch minimum. 

For one of the brakes, the back of the rotor had worn off and the venting fins were exposed. The brake caliper was loose, as well. Our technician also noticed the red brake light was on.

We recommended brake pads and rotors in the front and rear, brake calipers in the rear, and brake light diagnostics.

Other brake problems we watch for during the Vehicle Safety Inspection include brake fluid leaks, and issues with the brake pedal or brake hoses.

The parking brake is checked to make sure it works on an incline.

Red brake light on Chevrolet.
Red brake light on Chevrolet

What headlight issues can fail the state inspection? 

Our inspector also noticed problems with various lights on the Chevrolet.

Both brake lights and reverse lights and one of the low beams were out. The turn signals in the rear didn’t flash.

In addition to making sure the headlights are working correctly, we look at the lenses and confirm the lights are clear.

The lights should be mounted securely and not have any problems with their aiming patterns.

What tire problems do we look for during the Virginia State Inspection?

A couple of other issues were pointed out on the Express during the state inspection.

The hood couldn’t be opened, which prevented our inspector from being able to check various items, including the brake fluid level.

He also recommended replacing one of the tires that was so worn the tire wear indicators were touching the road.

Punctures, secondary rubber and chords are other tire problems we watch for.

Virginia State Inspection on Chevrolet Express.
Virginia State Inspection on Chevrolet Express

Why is the Vehicle Safety Inspection important?

For many drivers, bringing their vehicle in for a Vehicle Safety Inspection may seem like a pointless task. However, cars can experience quite a bit of wear over the course of a year.

We want to ensure that your vehicle is able to stop at a red light, and you can see and be seen by other drivers.

If the brake light is on, the cause needs to be determined as it can indicate a number of brake problems.

It’s important that motorists know when you’re braking or turning, and that your tires provide the appropriate amount of traction no matter where or what time of the year you’re traveling.

These are just some of the items our inspectors check out. The steering and suspension, seat belts, fuel system, mirrors, windshield and windshield wipers, and exhaust system are among the many other components and systems we look over.

A state inspection gives automotive experts a chance to dive under the hood, look under the car, and peek behind the tires.

This annual checkup goes beyond the brief look that motorists typically give the outside of their vehicle and makes sure everything is working as designed.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Lake Ridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Suspension system: What will fail the Virginia State Inspection?

In Suspension by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The Virginia State Inspection allows us to perform a thorough evaluation of your vehicle.

This annual requirement is meant to point out any safety concerns as well as future problem areas.

One of the systems our inspectors check is the suspension and the many parts that make up it.

As we look over the suspension system, our biggest concern is making sure the system is working the way it’s supposed to. Is anything bent, broken, or out of place?

Are shocks part of Virginia State Inspections?

Yes, shocks and struts are among the many suspension parts that are checked during the Virginia State Inspection.

What do control arms need to be inspected for?

When performing a Vehicle Safety Inspection, we make sure the control arms can’t be moved by hand. Our inspectors also see if they’re cracked or torn. 

Can you pass an inspection with bad ball joints?

No, ball joints can fail the Vehicle Safety Inspection if they have movement.

Cotter pin missing on Acura TLX.
Cotter pin missing on Acura TLX

What will fail a Virginia State Inspection?

Here are some suspension system problems that will can cause a vehicle to fail the state inspection:

  • Play in the ball joints
  • Broken coil springs
  • Moving control arms
  • Shock absorber issues (more information below)
  • Struts that have play or don’t work correctly
  • Sway bars that move by hand
  • Tie rods with play at the ball joints (inner or outer)

Our inspectors want to make sure the shock absorbers aren’t missing, broken, worn or disconnected. They also confirm that the shock absorbers work correctly.

New front struts were recommended for a Chevrolet Spark. The strut mounts were moving, which would have caused the car to fail the Virginia State Inspection.

If the shocks or struts are leaking or we have doubts about any suspension parts, we have to perform a bounce test. If the vehicle bounces too much and the components aren’t functioning properly, it will fail the inspection.

Another reason why a car may not pass the inspection is if any pieces from the suspension system are missing – even something as small as a cotter pin. This actually occurred on an Acura TLX. While performing a Virginia State Inspection on the car, we saw the cotter pin was missing.

What are symptoms of a failing ball joint?

Movement is one problem we look for while inspecting ball joints. A Jeep Wrangler we worked on had play in an upper ball joint and sway bar link. 

Knocking and squeaking noises can also appear when it’s time to replace them.

You might notice that the steering wheel is uncentered or other indicators of an alignment problem when the ball joints are on their way out. 

What happens when a control arm goes bad?

Drivers could experience some symptoms when it’s time to replace control arms. The vehicle pulling one way can be an indicator.

Chevrolet Spark strut replacement.
Chevrolet Spark strut replacement

What are the symptoms of bad shocks and struts?

You may notice a few problems with your shocks and struts when they are going bad.

These indicators include:

  • Uneven tire wear
  • Vehicle bouncing more
  • Squeaking noises
  • Nose diving while braking

What happens when a tie rod goes bad?

Bad tie rods can impact your steering capability and wheel alignment.

You might hear different sounds, as well.

Whether your vehicle is due for a state inspection soon or you’re just trying to keep up with the maintenance, taking care of any suspension problems that arise can keep your car running safely.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dale City, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Why do I hear a roaring noise while driving?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Your vehicle can produce a variety of sounds. 

They may be noticed in different scenarios – like when you’re turning, braking, going over bumps, or driving at a certain speed.

A roaring noise is one sound drivers might notice.

Why does my car make a roaring noise?

There are few possible reasons why a car is making a roaring noise:

  • Hub bearing going bad
  • Tire wear
  • Brake problems
  • Worn differential bearing or transmission bearing

A roaring sound may be heard if it’s time to replace a hub bearing. Occasionally, the symptom could indicate that a bearing from the transmission or differential is worn.

Tires can create a roaring if there is cupping, feathering or any irregularity in the tread.

You might notice a roaring noise if there’s rust on the brake rotor surface.

What caused a roaring noise on an Acura?

Noise diagnostics was performed on an Acura RDX.

The driver could hear a loud sound coming from the wheels or tires at low speeds.

Our technician noticed a roaring noise and realized it was coming from a hub bearing. He recommended replacing the bearing as well as the rim, which was bent and wobbling.

What does a hub bearing do?

If you haven’t worked on vehicles or aren’t familiar with how they are set up, you may be wondering, “What is a hub bearing?”

Hub bearings – sometimes called wheel bearings – can be found in the steering system.

A bearing goes into the hub, which is connected to the steering knuckle.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS), in many cases, is a part of the bearings. Using data from the ABS, the computer is able to learn the wheel speeds.

There are hub assemblies that consist of multiple parts, and hubs and bearings that come as separate pieces.

How do I know if I need a new hub bearing?

How do you know if you have a bad hub bearing? A bearing problem can cause several symptoms, such as:

ABS engaging: Every once in a while, there will be something wrong with the tone ring that’s found in the bearing. Injuries to the tone ring may cause the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to kick in.   

Roaring noise or growling sound: As we’ve already mentioned, you might hear a roaring noise when the hub bearing should be replaced. A hub bearing problem could also come across as a growling sound. 

Traction Control Light or ABS Light: It’s possible that the Traction Control Light and ABS Light will turn on, because the tone ring and ABS wheel speed sensor are in many newer bearings.

Vibration: A vibration could be associated with a bearing, too. Vibration would occur if a wheel is shaking due to a loose hub bearing.

Hub bearing replacement on Acura.
Hub bearing replacement on Acura

How long do bearings last?

There is no set amount of time that hub bearings last. Generally, bearings go bad after 100,000 miles, unless influenced otherwise. We’ve also seen vehicles with 400,000 miles that haven’t needed to replace them.

Hard driving, impacts and driving conditions can expedite the wear process. Salt and sand that’s spread on the road may cause corrosion to build up on car parts, including bearings.

How do you maintain hub bearings?

On older vehicles you used to be able to service hub bearings by greasing them. You can’t service the bearings for newer cars, because they’re sealed.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Do I have a coolant leak?

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Temperature is an important factor when it comes to a car’s engine.

Coolant is used to maintain the temperature of the engine, allowing it to operate correctly and safely.

Sometimes, coolant leaks develop in the cooling system.

How does the cooling system work?

The cooling system is made up of a few components that keep the engine operating at a safe temperature.

When the engine block hits to a specific temperature, a thermostat slowly opens, allowing coolant to flow from the water pump to the radiator. The coolant goes to the heater core and, then, the engine block.

What are symptoms of a coolant leak?

A few signs will present themselves when your car has a coolant leak.

These are some symptoms you may notice:

Visible coolant leaks: Sometimes coolant leaks can’t be seen. But, depending on the location of the leak, drivers might notice coolant leaking from their vehicle (usually the center of the car’s front).

Coolant can be green, orange, pink, red or yellow.

Low coolant on Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Low coolant on Toyota FJ Cruiser

Low coolant: The coolant level could also be low if a leak is present. 

Engine overheating: You may come across another indicator while operating your car. The engine temperature light might appear on your dashboard, telling you that the engine is overheating.

What are common causes of coolant leaks?

Coolant leaks can be the result of rust, corrosion and impacts.

Sometimes, leaks stem from parts going bad.

What are common places for a coolant leak?

There are many places where coolant leaks occur.

Leaks are possible if cracks develop in the radiator hoses or water pumps.

Other problems that could lead to leaks include broken heater hose connectors and bad seals and gaskets on water pumps.

A coolant leak occurred on a Volkswagen Beetle due to a heater hose connector breaking and a crack in the oil filter housing. 

Leaking coolant might be found if clamps become weak. The seals and gaskets on inlets and outlets are also sources of leaks.

On older vehicles, you may see an inlet and outlet. The inlet and outlet have been replaced with multiple coolant hoses on certain cars nowadays.

These smaller coolant hoses may be covered up by other components, making it more challenging to locate some leaks.

Upper radiator hoses leaking on Jeep Cherokee.
Upper radiator hoses leaking on Jeep Cherokee

Here are common coolant leak places:

  • Water pump
    • Water pump seals and gaskets
  • Radiator
    • End caps
    • Oil coolers
    • Transmission coolers
    • Radiator hoses
  • Heater core
    • Heater core inlets and outlets
    • Heater hoses
    • Heater hose connectors
  • Thermostat housing
    • Thermostat
  • Bypass hoses

How do we find coolant leaks?

The steps for figuring out where coolant is leaking will vary between internal and external leaks.

If the leak is occurring on the outside, we will start with a visual inspection. The inspection is followed by a coolant pressure test, which allows us to see leaks. 

A variety of tests may be used to locate internal leaks, such as a block test.

Can you drive a car with leaking coolant?

A vehicle that has a coolant leak will technically drive, but not for long.

You should avoid using a car that’s leaking coolant, because it will overheat. If a vehicle runs too hot, it can lead to engine damage. The head gasket could blow, and after it blows the car won’t run right.

In severe cases, driving a vehicle with an overheating engine will warp the surfaces of the motor.

Because of the damage that can occur, you don’t want to put off a coolant leak repair. If your car has a coolant leak or you’re noticing symptoms of a leak, have it checked out by an automotive expert as soon as possible.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.