Search Bar
Hearing an unusual noise from your vehicle can be alarming — and confusing. Most drivers have experienced it at some point: the unexpected squeal, rattle, clunk, or hum that seems to come out of nowhere. But what do those noises really mean? And when should you schedule an inspection with a trusted neighborhood mechanic?
At Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Centers, we believe that educating drivers is one of the most important parts of keeping Northeast Ohio families safe on the road. For 50 years, we’ve been the neighborhood mechanic near you, offering honest diagnostics, expert repairs, and no-pressure advice. We know vehicle noises are often your car’s way of telling you something’s wrong — and ignoring them can turn small problems into costly repairs.
Here’s your guide to five of the most common vehicle noises, what they might mean, and how Rad Air can help get you back on the road safely.
One of the most frequent noises drivers notice is a high-pitched squeal or grinding sound when applying the brakes. This noise is usually a clear sign that your brake system needs attention.
Possible Causes:
What to Do:
Brake noise should never be ignored. Worn brakes reduce stopping power, increase the risk of accidents, and can damage other components. If you hear squealing, grinding, or a metallic scraping sound, it’s time to schedule a brake inspection at your nearest Rad Air location.
Rad Air offers professional brake inspections and repairs at 11 convenient Northeast Ohio locations near you, ensuring your brakes work properly to keep you and your family safe.
If you hear a clunking, banging, or rattling noise when driving over potholes or uneven roads, it often points to suspension problems.
Possible Causes:
What to Do:
A healthy suspension system ensures a smooth ride, proper handling, and vehicle stability. Clunking sounds can indicate worn components that compromise your car’s safety and comfort.
The roads around Cleveland, Akron, and all of Northeast Ohio can be rough — so suspension wear is common. Rad Air’s expert technicians can inspect your suspension, pinpoint the source of the noise, and provide honest recommendations for repairs.
Hearing a hissing, sizzling, or steam-like sound from under your hood is a warning sign you should never ignore, especially if it’s accompanied by visible steam or the smell of burning fluids.
Possible Causes:
What to Do:
Overheating can cause major engine damage and expensive repairs. If you hear a hissing sound or see steam, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
Rad Air provides cooling system inspections and repairs at all locations. Our technicians will check for leaks, inspect hoses, test the radiator, and make sure your engine stays protected — especially during Northeast Ohio’s hot summer months.
A high-pitched whining, humming, or droning sound that increases with vehicle speed is often related to your tires, wheel bearings, or drivetrain.
Possible Causes:
What to Do:
Whining or humming sounds can affect your vehicle’s handling and lead to dangerous driving conditions. If you hear these noises, have your car inspected promptly.
Rad Air offers comprehensive tire services, wheel bearing replacements, and drivetrain diagnostics to keep your car running quietly and smoothly. Our technicians provide straightforward explanations and expert repairs at a Rad Air location near you.
A clicking, ticking, or tapping noise coming from the engine — especially when idling or accelerating — often indicates issues with internal components or low oil levels.
Possible Causes:
What to Do:
Ignoring engine noises can lead to major failures and expensive repairs. Checking your oil level is a good first step, but persistent engine ticking should be addressed by a professional.
Rad Air’s ASE-certified technicians can diagnose engine noises, perform oil changes, and identify mechanical issues before they worsen.
Vehicle noises often signal early warning signs of problems, and catching them early saves time, money, and stress. At Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Centers, we’re proud to be your neighborhood mechanic near you, offering honest inspections, no-pressure recommendations, and reliable repairs.
Whether it’s squealing brakes, clunking suspension, or an engine noise that leaves you concerned, our team provides expert diagnostics and solutions to keep your vehicle — and your family — safe.
With 11 convenient locations, there’s always a trusted Rad Air center close by, ready to help diagnose and fix those mysterious car noises:
Hearing a strange noise from your vehicle? Don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with Rad Air today for expert diagnostics and peace of mind.
As your neighborhood mechanic, we’ll treat your car like it’s our own — providing honest answers, quality repairs, and the trusted service Northeast Ohio drivers have counted on since 1975.