Cars make many different noises, and you’re probably already used to most of them. However, once your car starts making an unfamiliar noise, your first question might be whether you need emergency towing to get your vehicle to a mechanic. Here are some basic noises to listen for.

Sounds That Need Attention

1. Hissing Hood

An idling car that emits hissing noises from its hood likely has a damaged vacuum line, putting the car at risk of a vacuum leak and, consequently, a severely damaged engine. The vehicle would also be noticeably more difficult to drive. Tow your car to a mechanic who can fix or replace the lines.

2. Shrieking Wheels

Brakes don’t always make noise themselves when they require maintenance. If you hear the wheels screeching, the brake pads are likely worn down. Waiting too long can impair the rotors dramatically, so tow the car to a mechanic and have the brake pads replaced right away.

3. Grating Metal From the Brakes

If you hear this noise, it means you’ve probably already waited longer than you should to have the brake pads checked out, and the rotors are suffering the consequences. A mechanic will need to repair or replace them immediately, so call a towing company.

4. Squealing Hood

If the accessory or serpentine belt is getting old and too worn to maintain traction, it will probably let you know by squealing from underneath the hood. It can cause serious damage to the engine if it snaps while you’re driving, so call roadside assistance or an emergency towing service when you hear this noise.

5. Mufflers That Don’t Purr

Anytime the muffler rattles, clanks, or doesn’t start up smoothly when you turn the ignition, have a mechanic examine the pipes in case they need to be realigned.

Patriot Towing offers 24/7 emergency response service for commercial or residential customers. No matter the time of day or night, if you hear any of these noises, they’ll tow you to a place where you can get help. In addition to offering quality roadside assistance, they are heavily involved with supporting cancer research and local law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs. Call (636) 392-5070 or visit their website for more towing information.