Q: Car makes a loud sound every time I start my car, at idle, and when driving at low speeds

asked by on October 17, 2016

When i press the brakes the reoccurring sound goes away, and when the car moves at a faster speed the sound goes away, but when the car is at a stand still the sounds comes back.I'm not sure if this is because of the high mileage and it's getting to that time where the car is going to die soon, or there's a problem i need to fix.

My car has 306000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is hard to start Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. The first thing to check would be your fluid levels. I’m not sure what type of noise you have, but ticking noises at idle can be linked to a low oil level. If there is a vacuum leak, the should may be more prominent at idle then fade as the engine speed increases. A vacuum leak would generally turn on the Check Engine Light as well. I recommend having a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, inspect the hard start and advise you on any repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How much oil does the engine hold?
Knowing the amount of oil your engine holds is important even if you don’t do your own oil changes. If you drive a 4-cylinder Accord, your engine holds 4.2 quarts of oil (including the filter). If you drive a V6...
Convertible top not going up or down
You are likely low on hydraulic fluid for your convertible top. A hydraulic system is used to move the convertible up and down. It is possible that there are leaks within the system. Even after repairing leaks, a factory scan...
Startup difficulty
Hello there, a few different things can cause an intermittent no start condition. The most likely causes are the battery, fuel pump, starter, ignition switch, battery cable or a wiring fault. You have replaced a few of these components, but...
Replace part 2010 Ford F350 Super Duty
Hello - the fuel pressure regulator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-fuel-pressure-regulator) is located directly behind the thermostat housing (radiator hose attachment end). There is an upgrade kit for this component to raise fuel pressure (Ford#3C3Z-9T517-AG IH #1843065C98). If you need assistance, I would recommend...
Connections are different on the new alternator.
Hi there. The wiring should be the same. If the plug is the same where it hooks into the alternator, then the wiring is the same. Newer alternators have different symbols for the connections. Now, if the connections are completely...
car will turnover but wont start.
Hello, and thank you for writing in. The vehicle is likely experiencing some issues with control module that communicated between the anti-theft components. Typically when the vehicle is messed with and the anti-theft system goes into action, you will need...
Power sliding door stuck open after van was jump started.
Hi there. In most cases, this issue is caused by the electrical motor being locked due to the battery swap. The only way to resolve this problem is to have a professional mechanic replace the motor. In the meantime, you...
Everytime I hit a bump while driving all my dash comes on, ven my gas gage down all the way down. No I cant use my turn signals.
This kind of problem sounds like a loose or bad electrical connection to the dash cluster and radio. I would recommend starting and running the engine and go to wire harnesses you can get to under dash and engine compartment...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy for Occasional Drivers
Not Not everyone relies on their car on a daily basis. Maybe you aren’t the type that deals with a daily commute, and running from here to there constantly. If that’s the case, you may be looking for a car...
The Most and Least Expensive Cars to Maintain
Luxury cars, such as BMWs, are the most expensive and Toyotas are the most cost efficient. Driving style also affects car maintenance costs.
Understanding the Acura Maintenance Minder Codes and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Acura Maintenance Minder codes indicate when and what service your car needs.