Can I diagnose a noise by recording it?

Often yes. A short voice note or video sent via WhatsApp can help us narrow it down significantly before you come in.

Is it safe to drive with a knocking noise?

Depends on the source. Exhaust rattle: usually fine short term. Suspension knock: use caution. Brake grinding: stop driving.

Why does my car only make the noise sometimes?

Temperature-dependent noises (worse when cold, clear when warm) often point to oil or hydraulic components. Speed-dependent noises often point to wheels and bearings.

My Car is Making a Strange Noise — What Could it Be?

Cars make specific noises for specific reasons. Here's how to translate what yours is telling you.

Squealing when braking

Almost always brake pad wear indicators. The pads are approaching minimum thickness and the wear tab is contacting the disc. Action required: get pads checked within a few weeks. Urgency: moderate.

Grinding when braking

Pads have worn through completely. Metal is contacting metal. Discs are being damaged. Action required: immediate. Urgency: high.

Knocking or clunking over bumps

Usually suspension — worn shock absorbers, failing ball joints, worn anti-roll bar drop links, or collapsed suspension bushes. Often gets worse over time. East London potholes accelerate this damage significantly. Urgency: moderate to high depending on severity.

Humming or droning from the wheels

Often a failing wheel bearing. The hum typically changes pitch with speed and may increase when cornering in one direction. Wheel bearings don't heal themselves and eventually fail completely, which is both a safety risk and an MOT fail. Urgency: act within a few weeks.

Ticking or tapping from the engine

If it's present when cold and clears as the engine warms: often low oil pressure at startup, or a sticky hydraulic tappet. Check your oil level first. Persistent ticking: could be tappet clearance issues or an early warning of oil system problems. Urgency: get it checked soon.

Rattling from underneath

Often exhaust heat shields — thin metal shields around the exhaust that can corrode and loosen. Irritating but not immediately dangerous. Could also be a loose exhaust mount or catalyst shield. Urgency: low to moderate.

Squealing from the engine bay (not when braking)

Accessory belt (serpentine belt) or one of the components it drives — alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor. Often worse when cold. Left alone, the belt can fail, leaving you without charging, steering assistance, or both. Urgency: check soon.

Not sure what you're hearing? Describe it to us — WhatsApp Reliance Autos and we'll help you work out if it's urgent.