Why Your Car Is Making a Rattling Noise

Hearing a rattling noise in your car is like hearing something scurrying in the walls the moment your head hits the pillow at night - you'll probably lose sleep until you find out what's causing it.

Issues with vital components such as the engine, suspension or cat converter could all be to blame for the rattling.

A quick fix could be all that's needed - depending on the cause - so it's worth taking the time to pinpoint the exact source of the problem...

What Causes a Rattling Noise?

Your car could be making a rattling noise for any of the following reasons:

• A faulty suspension system
• Low engine oil
• A loose exhaust system
• Broken serpentine belt
• Broken catalytic converter

You may be able to fix the problem simply by picking up any loose objects that are rolling around in the glove box, door storage pockets or cup holders.

If not, then the severity of the issue will depend on when exactly you hear the noise.

Let's listen out for some of the rattling sounds you could be hearing in your car...

A Rattling Noise When Driving Over Speed Bumps

If you hear the rattle when you drive over speed bumps, it is likely that a worn-out suspension component is causing issues.

Parts like the ball joints, tie rods or strut mounts could be causing the problem.

You should have the issue looked at right away and should not drive until it is resolved.

A Rattling Noise When Accelerating

A rattling sound that you notice when accelerating is likely to be caused by a broken or loose catalytic converter component.

If the cat converter is causing problems, you are likely to hear the noise at its loudest when you start the engine, and it will get worse as time goes on.

Worn suspension parts could also be to blame – a mechanic will be able to diagnose the fault for you.

Other causes of rattling when accelerating include alternator issues or low engine oil levels.

A Rattling Noise When Idle

If you hear a rattling noise when the car is idle, there could be a problem with a loose exhaust part or even with the engine.

You can book an exhaust repair if you're worried about this part.

A Rattling Noise Under the Car

A rattling noise underneath your car that sounds like metal can indicate that there is a mechanical problem.

The issue could be any of the following:

• A damaged exhaust system
• Faulty suspension system
• Damaged wheel bearings
• Loose nuts
• Failing catalytic converter
• Worn steering components

If you suspect that damaged wheel bearings are to blame, then you can book a replacement.

A Rattling Noise Under the Bonnet

A rattling noise under the bonnet could be caused by any of the following:

• Low or old engine oil
• A broken serpentine belt
• Worn engine mounts
• Faulty pulleys
• Worn timing chain

You should top up your engine oil when needed and check for leaks if you are concerned about low fluid levels.

Driving with a broken serpentine belt can lead to engine overheating, so you should check under your bonnet to see if you will need to have your car towed to a garage.

If a worn timing chain or cambelt is to blame, you should book a repair.

How to Stop Your Car from Rattling

The solution to your car rattling problem will vary depending on what is causing the issue.

Besides picking up any loose objects that may be rolling around your car's interior, you should book the service that best suits your vehicle's needs.

This could be an oil change for low engine oil levels, or a repair if a broken part is causing problems.

If you aren’t sure where the rattling sound is coming from, you can trust a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue for you.

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