Key Takeaways:

• When the car makes strange noises, it’s best to take it to a local mechanic to have them take a look.
• Brakes that screech, squeal, or grind are usually in need of service, as are engines that ping, knock or rattle.
• Exhaust systems that hiss, roar, or whistle indicate leaks, while fluids that leak, drip, or gurgle shows there might be a significant problem.
• When you turn your steering wheel, a grinding noise indicates that your power steering fluid is low.
• Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC offers car repair and maintenance services to customers in Winston Salem, NC, and the surrounding areas.

Your car is making a noise, and you’re not sure what it means. You might be wondering, “Is this something serious?” Most people probably don’t know what all of these car sounds mean. There are a lot of weird and potentially dangerous sounds your vehicle can make that you may not even be aware of. Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC will discuss the most common ones. If your car makes any of these noises, you must immediately take it in for a check-up at your local mechanic!

Different Car Noises And Their Meaning

You’re driving down the road and hearing a strange car noise. You can’t quite place it, but it’s not something you’ve heard before. What is it? And more importantly, is it something serious?

Here are the most common sounds your car might be making and what they could mean:

1. Loud Screeching Sound

You’re driving along when you hear a loud screeching sound. It’s so loud and unexpected that it makes you jump out of your seat. If this happens, it’s a clear sign that your brake pads must be replaced.

Brake noises can be an indication of a variety of problems, and they usually signal that your brakes need to be serviced. Built-in wear indicators in your brake pads are generally the source of high-pitch car noises, so you may require to change the pad. The scraping sound at the bottom could indicate that your brake pads have almost completely worn away, with the caliper grinding against the rotor. In any case, you’ll have to get new brakes as soon as possible.

2. Grinding Noise

A grinding noise when you shift gears is never a good sign. It could mean that your clutch is worn out or something is wrong with your transmission. It could be a severe problem, so it’s best to get it checked out by a local mechanic as soon as possible.

3. Humming Sound

The strange humming sound from under the hood might be due to a problem with your alternator belt. A loose belt can lead to all sorts of issues with your electrical system.

4. Clicking Noise

When you turn the steering wheel, a clicking noise could indicate that your power steering fluid is low. Clicking noise from your car’s engine could mean a problem with your fuel injectors. It should be checked out by a local mechanic, as it can cause all sorts of performance issues if left unchecked.

Your engine requires the correct proportion of fuel and air and a functioning spark plug to create the ignition. If any of these components is deficient, it may cause the rumble noises you experience at low RPMs.

5. Rumbling Sound

The problem might be with your fuel injectors if the car is rumbling and not running smoothly. A grime build-up can prevent the right amount of fuel from being delivered to the mixture. Occasionally, a commercial cleaning solution to your gas tank will clear this up. Another potential cause for oxygen deprivation could be a blocked air filter needing replacing. If it’s neither of these, it may be that the oxygen sensor needs changing as it might not be detecting correctly, resulting in an incorrect mix ratio.

In short, old or faulty spark plugs can be the source of your engine’s problems. If the spark plugs are not firing as required, it will cause imbalanced combustion in your machine, which results in a muffled noise. Usually, it is advised to change out your spark plugs every 30-40 thousand miles; however, you should always check your owner’s manual for detailed instructions specific to your car.

6. Rattling Noise

If you’re hearing a faint rattling noise, it might mean that there’s something loose in your engine. It could be bad bushings. Bushings are suspension system components usually made of rubber or another synthetic that work to cushion the different parts, reduce friction, and stop vibrations. Unfortunately, like most car parts made of rubber, these can break down and become brittle over time. A rattling sound could also signify that the sway bar links are damaged or that the struts, shocks, or ball joints need to be replaced.

It might be challenging to pinpoint a sound when you’re in the car, so performing a bounce test at home can be helpful. Press firmly on the front corner of the automobile and listen for the noise while it’s parked. It may not tell you which bushing needs to be changed, but it will confirm that your suspension is causing the rattling. Ideally, this should not make any rattling or knocking sound. Therefore if your test always produces noisy results, it’s time to visit the local mechanic.

7. Banging Noise

If you’re hearing a loud banging noise, it’s probably an indication that something is seriously wrong with your engine. It is a case where you should take your car to the nearest service station and have them take a look.

8. Clucking Noise

Clucking noises from your car’s engine could mean your oil level is low, so you should check it as soon as possible. If the oil level is accurate, then the problem might be with your oil pump. There could also be a severe problem with valves, connecting rods, or pistons.

9. Hissing Noise

A hissing noise could mean a leak in your radiator hose. Again, this is a severe problem, and you should immediately pull over and call for roadside assistance. Also, read our blog on the signs that your car’s radiator needs immediate attention.

There are some other car noises also that spell trouble. Click here to learn more.

Need Car Repair and Maintenance Services in Winston Salem, NC? No Problem!

If you’re noticing strange noises or problems with your car, contact Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC, serving Winston Salem, NC. We’ll be happy to help diagnose the issue and fix it as quickly as possible. Plus, our service department is staffed by certified technicians who know Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC vehicles inside and out. So, we can take care of whether you need an oil change or a new transmission.

Schedule your service appointment today, and let us show you what quality automotive care is all about. Thanks for reading!

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Are you out car-buying in the market for a new vehicle? If so, have you given any idea about trading in your old one? While it may seem like a pretty easy way to get a new car, there are some things you should do before you go through with auto trade-ins.

In this blog post, Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC will give you a few tips on what to do before trading in your used vehicle. So, keep reading whether you’re thinking about trading in your current car or just curious about what needs to be done!

Tip 1: Get an Estimate of Your Car’s Trade-In Value

The first thing you should do before trading in your car is to get an estimate of its trade-in value. That can be easily done by researching the make and model online or taking it to a few different dealerships. Once you’ve got an all-around idea of what your car is worth, you can negotiate with the dealer.

Tip 2: Gather All the Necessary Documents

Before you trade in your car, make sure you have all the necessary documents. This includes things like your registration, title, and insurance information. Without these items, the dealership may not be able to process your trade-in.

Tip 3: Clean Up Your Car Thoroughly

This one is important – you want to ensure your car is presentable before you trade it in. This means giving it a good wash and vacuum, inside and out. You may even want to bring a few air fresheners to mask lingering smells.

Tip 4: Fix Small Issues Yourself

If your car has any small problems, like a cracked windshield or burned-out headlight, fix them before you trade it in. These issues can lower your car’s value, so it’s best to take care of them beforehand.

Tip 5: Don’t Forget to Bring the Extras

Bring along any extras that came with your car, like floor mats or a spare tire. You can remove them and keep them for your next car if you have aftermarket additions, like a GPS.

Tip 6: Be Prepared to Negotiate

Remember that the dealer’s initial offer is almost always negotiable. When negotiating, be sure to focus on your car’s trade-in value rather than the new car’s sale price. With a little haggling, you should be able to get a fair price for your trade-in.

Tip 7: Know When to Walk Away

If you’re unhappy with the offer, don’t hesitate to walk away. There are plenty of dealers, and you’re bound to find one willing to give you a fair value for your ride.

By following these easy-to-follow tips, you’ll be well on your way to getting a great deal on your next car trade-in.

Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC Can Help You Out!

Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC, serving Greensboro, NC, is happy to help you with your car-buying needs, including trade-ins. Whether you are looking around for a new car or need some help getting rid of your old one, we’re here for you.

Schedule a service appointment if you need help getting your car ready to trade in, or check out the value of your ride right away!

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There’s nothing more frustrating than watching your gas gauge slowly move from full to half-full. And, as we all know, the lower that indicator goes, the more painful it is to fill up your tank. But don’t fret – there are plenty of ways to increase your car’s gas mileage and save some money at the pump.

1) Show Your Pedal Some Love – Avoid Over speeding and Braking Too Hard

We’ve all been there. You’re running late for work and floor it, only to slam on the brakes a few minutes later because the light turned red. Or maybe you’re just an aggressive driver. Either way, this style of driving is not only dangerous, but it’s also terrible for your gas mileage. Your car burns more fuel at higher speeds. So take it easy on the pedal and avoid sudden stops.

2) Keep Your Tires Inflated

This one is easy to overlook, but it can make a big difference in your gas mileage. Under-inflated tires increase drag and cause your engine to work harder, which means you’ll use more gas. Check your owner’s manual to find out what PSI your tires should be inflated to, and check them regularly, at least once a month.

3) Reduce the Weight

The car also consumes more gas with a heavier load. So if you carry unnecessary weight in your trunk or backseat, get rid of it! The same goes for any aftermarket accessories like bike racks or cargo carriers. If you don’t need it, take it off.

4) Use the AC Sparingly

Your car’s air conditioner is powered by the engine, which means using it will reduce your fuel efficiency. So on mild weather days, open the windows and enjoy the fresh air instead.

5) Use Cruise Control

If you have the technology, it doesn’t hurt to use it! Maintaining a consistent speed can improve your car’s fuel economy by up to 14 percent on the highway, so it pays off to turn on cruise control when driving on the open road.

6) Get Regular Maintenance Checks

This one is important! Ensuring your car is running smoothly and efficiently will not only improve your gas mileage but also extend your vehicle’s life. So don’t skip out on those regular oil changes and tune-ups.

7) Check the Alignment

Poor car alignment can cause your tires to wear down unevenly, which is costly to repair and increases resistance and drag on your car. This resistance will use up more fuel, so get your alignment checked if you think it might be off. Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC is here to help you if you want to improve your Chevy’s fuel efficiency. Our team of experienced professionals knows how to get the most out of your car and can help you save at the gas pump in High Point, NC. Schedule a service today, and let us show you how easy it is to increase your car’s gas mileage!

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If your car’s engine is overheating, you’re in for a world of trouble. Not only will the engine be damaged, but you could also end up stranded on the side of the road.

Follow these tips & you’ll be able to keep your car running cool all year long:

1. Pull Over

When your engine overheats, it’s important to pull over and stop as soon as possible. If you continue driving an overheated engine, it can cause expensive damage and be a safety hazard.

2. Check the Coolant Level

If you think your car might be overheating, one of the first things you should do is check the coolant level. The coolant helps keep the engine at a consistent temperature; if it’s low, it can cause the engine to overheat.

Open the hood & locate the radiator. There should be a coolant reservoir next to the radiator; if it’s empty, add more coolant.

3. Check for Head Gasket Leaks

A head gasket leak can cause the engine to overheat. To check for a head gasket leak, remove the spark plugs and look for signs of oil or coolant in the cylinders. If you see either of these fluids, it indicates a head gasket leak.

4. Check for Coolant Leaks

If your car is leaking coolant, that could be why the engine is overheating. Check for leaks by looking for wet spots under your vehicle. If you see any, your car is likely leaking coolant. You should take it to a mechanic to have the leak fixed as soon as possible.

5. Inspect the Radiator Cap

If the radiator cap is damaged, it might not be able to hold pressure, which could cause the engine to overheat. Check the radiator cap, unscrew it, and inspect it for any damage. If necessary, replace the radiator cap.

6. Check the Thermostat

The thermostat regulates the engine’s temperature; your engine may overheat if it’s not functioning correctly! To check the thermostat, remove it from the engine and place it in a pot of boiling water. If the thermostat doesn’t open, it needs to be replaced.

7. Check the Water Pump

The water pump circulates coolant through the engine. It’s important to ensure that it’s in good working condition! Remove the drive belt to locate the water pump & spin the pulley by hand. You must replace the water pump if the pulley doesn’t spin freely.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can prevent engine overheating. And, if your engine overheats, you know how to fix the problem. Don’t forget to check your coolant level & keep an eye out for any leaks. By doing so, you can keep your engine running cool and avoid any costly repairs.

Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC serving Greensboro, NC, is a Buick GMC dealership that fulfillsthe automotive needs of the area residents. Whether you need an oil change or get your engine checked – we do everything at our car dealership! Our knowledgeable staff provides various services for all your vehicle needs, from oil changes and engine inspections to transmission replacement.

Schedule your car service now!

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It’s not a fun experience when your car breaks down on a busy highway. And it’s not cheap to get it repaired. But if you can catch minor problems before they turn into big ones, you might be able to avoid an expensive repair bill. In this blog post, we’ll discuss six common signs that indicate potentially significant repair needs for your car’s radiator.

1) Your Car’s Overheating

This is easily the most obvious sign of engine overheating. If you notice your engine is releasing white steam, it means things are beyond control, and you need to stop instantly. Inspect coolant levels and if it’s low, refill it. Call a tow truck if that doesn’t work because your engine is kaput.

2) Leaking Coolant

If you see fluid leaks under your car, it’s likely coming from the radiator. Fluid leaks are a serious problem since your radiator is not doing its job correctly. You need to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible because continuing to drive with a leaking radiator will only cause more damage to your engine.

3) Sludge Buildup

Sludge buildup is a common radiator issue when the coolant isn’t changed regularly. The radiator needs clean coolant to function correctly, so if there’s sludge buildup, it will reduce the radiator’s efficiency. The sludge buildup can lead to your engine overheating, so it’s essential to have the radiator flushed and filled with new coolant at least once a year.

4) Radiator Hoses Are Damaged

If the radiator hoses are cracked or leaking, they need immediate replacement. This is a relatively easy fix and one that you can do yourself if you’re handy with car repairs. However, if you’re not sure how to do it, take your car to a mechanic, and they’ll take care of the radiator damage.

5) The Temperature Gauge Climbs

If you notice the temperature gauge is rising, even if the radiator isn’t leaking, it’s a sign that there could be an issue. The gauge indicates problems as simple as a thermostat that needs replacement. However, the temperature gauge can also highlight more severe issues like a water pump failure. In any case, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic and have them check it out to be safe.

6) Radiator Showing Signs of Rust

If you see any radiator rust, it’s a sign that the radiator is starting to degrade. This can lead to radiator leaks and other problems. If you see radiator rust, get a mechanic to check your car as soon as possible.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them! Radiator damage can lead to some severe issues if left unchecked.

If you see any of the above signs, it’s time to bring your car in for a radiator service. Don’t wait until the last minute – the extensive damage can leave you stranded on the roadside. Please schedule a service appointment with Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC serving High Point today, and our experts will fix all car radiator issues for you.

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What are the telltale signs that it’s time to buy a new car? If you’re not sure, you’re not alone. Many folks procrastinate when it comes to buying a new ride, either because they don’t want to deal with the hassle or they’re afraid of sticker shock.

But if you wait too long, you might find yourself in a situation where your old car is too unreliable or costly to keep driving. So how do you know when to pull the trigger and upgrade? Here are five tips by Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC to help you decide.

The Signs!

1. Your Current Car Keeps Breaking Down

It may be time for an auto upgrade if you constantly deal with car trouble. Of course, every car will need some repairs from time to time. But if you make many mechanic trips, it’s probably time for something new.

Frequent breakdowns are not only frustrating, but they can also be expensive. If you’re spending more money on repairs than you would on a monthly car payment, it’s probably time to start shopping around.

2. Your Car is Outdated

If your car is starting to feel old and outdated, it might be time for an upgrade. Automotive Technology has come a really long way in recent years, and newer cars have a lot to offer in terms of safety, entertainment, and convenience.

If your car doesn’t have features like Bluetooth connectivity or a backup camera, you’re missing out. And if it’s lacking in safety features, you could be putting yourself at risk.

3. You’ve Had It for a Long Time.

Even if your car is running well, it might be time for an upgrade if you’ve had it for a long time. After a certain point, cars lose their value and can cost more to maintain. If you’ve had your car for over ten years, it might be time to start thinking about something new.

4. You’re Ready for a Change

Sometimes, people get tired of their cars. It may be a good time for something new if you’re sick of how your car looks and feels. Getting a new car can be a great way to refresh your life and start with something new.

5. You Want The New Tech

If you wish for the latest and greatest technology, a new car might be for you. New cars come with new features, from in-car entertainment systems to safety features. If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest tech, buying a new car is a great way to do it.

Here’s How Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC Can Help Y’all!

Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC, serving High Point, NC, is here to save the day with an extensive collection of new & used vehicles. No matter what you’re looking for, we have something sure to meet your needs.

We also offer tons of financing options to help make your purchase more affordable. Come see us today and find the perfect car for you!

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