Step by step guide on how to troubleshoot and repair an automotive howling noise, this information pertains to all cars.
Difficulty Scale: 4 of 10
Tools and Supplies Needed
Begin with the vehicle on level ground, engine off with the parking brake set.
Step 1 - As the tires of the vehicle contact the ground the tire surface must be smooth for a quite ride. If the tires become cupped or scalloped due to improper balance or alignment they can produce a howling sound at various speeds.
Step 2 - An axle bearing is designed to support
the vehicle while in motion, when these bearings fail they can cause a howling sound
which is sometimes more noticeable when the car is turning.
Step 3 - The power steering system will produce
a howling noise when the fluid level has dropped and the pump is scavenging for fluid,
remove the cap and check the fluid level.
Step 4 - The car differential is designed to transfer
power from the engine to the wheels, when this unit starts to fail it can cause
a howling noise when in operation. This is due to excessive wear in the bearings
or gear set which will produce metal shavings that are gathered on the internal
magnet.
Step 5 - Automobiles equipped with a fan clutch
(rear wheel drive) can experience a howling noise when the fan clutch has locked,
to check for this problem start with the engine off, gently check the fan by pushing
it in rotation, the fan should move freely, if not replacement is required.
Step 6 - An automatic transmission can produce
a howling noise when the
filter has plugged or the fluid level is low.
Step 7 - A standard transmission can make howling
noises when a bearing or gear has worn and is failing.
Step 8 - The serpentine belt and related pulley
and tensioner bearings can create a howling noise when failed. To check these bearings
remove the belt
and spin each accessory to locate the failed bearing.