O. Run your hand along the tread. Grinding or low-pitched humming sounds can be a sign of wear and failing parts. So we found the solution! Over the years, he claims a sturdy hold on his driving skills, along with a thorough understanding of cars. Low transmission fluid in the engine can cause humming noises when driving. If this sound is not limited to passing the first gear and keep going when you drive and shift other gears. Once a good ground is restored, it should go away. Air escaping through a leak can also cause a distinct "humming" noise. Worn or damaged shafts. If your Chevy Sonic is suffering from uneven tire wear, you should be able to pick up the noise while driving around 30 MPH with it getting louder as you accelerate. The entire weight of the vehicle rests on the bearings. If you see any flecks of metal on there, it will probably need to be serviced. Every so o read more They develop over time as the result of poor maintenance, abuse, or high mileage. This video is part of a series of videos heres the playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqm72j2KoMXBFtcnGZ9-H2M02QJt2MixGIt had what sounded like a squealing belt noise coming from engine. When driving, the speed creates additional forces. Generally, these issues don't show up suddenly. You can hear it when you're outside, but it. Its not a breakdown risk, but you can still end up stranded if the wheel bearing or suspension component causing the hum fails. Why Does My AC Rattle When I Turn It On? - YourMechanic Uneven roads with potholes, bumps, and dirt tracks often affect wheel bearing. If your Chevy Sonic has a humming noise at high speed, it can be distracting and, depending on the cause, dangerous. The recommendation is to check the problem and replace the whole fluid, and not complete the old one. You can tell them apart in most cases by doing this simple test on your Chevy Sonic: If you suspect a bad wheel bearing, jack your Sonic up and free-turn each wheel. You can check it by driving at low speed on uneven roads or swinging the car. Thats a great indication that it is probably the power steering pump making noise. Like in the case of a damaged wheel bearing and low transmission oil level, the sound is louder. Noise still therewater pump or other belt driven componentloose belt tensioner, lift belt off any pully so it hangs free from the crankshaft pulley and start enginenoise gone? In such cases, resetting the onboard computers can sometimes help resolve the issue. If it didnt change, its likely a tire-related problem. 2010-2012 Chevrolet Camaro. While you can go a thousand more miles, it can turn dangerous for everyone on the road. Tire cupping or scalloping is a type of uneven wear that is known to cause humming noise at high speeds, and is often mistaken for a bad wheel bearing. Are you still within your powertrain warranty? If the transmission fluid is leaking, you will notice a red fluid with a slippery consistency under your car. It is necessary to set the speed to neutral so that the wheel rotates freely (this can be omitted if wheels are being checked on a rear-wheel-drive car. Here is the fix for this situation. In this case, the nature and intensity of the hum will change. Second sign is that the noise changes when cornering, which varies depending on the steering angle and thereby increases or decreases: a hum when turning left, for example, usually indicates a defective wheel bearing on the right-hand side and vice versa. Jimmy, Making it work 15K views 1 year ago Top 5 Reasons Your Car is Shaking or Vibrating - Symptoms and Fixes. Clunking or rattling. Poor road conditions. Chevrolet Sonic Engine Noise Problems - carproblemzoo.com Also, check out for leakage and tire air pressure. Did the sound change as you moved the wheel? It leads to poor performance of the engine, and it may eventually shut down. The biggest thing to look out for that would point to a specific issue would be when the noise occurs. In most cases, leaking is the leading cause of low transmission fluid levels. 2010-2012 GMC Terrain. Humming noise is a symptom of an underlying problem with your Sonic, which must be resolved urgently for your safety and driving comfort. Chevrolet Sonic Loud Engine Noise Problems - carproblemzoo.com If left unserviced, the bearings wear out faster and could cause damage to other parts. Unplugging the alternator from the wiring harness should stop the noise. That sound indicates that the serpentine belt isnt gripping the pulleys. Humming noise in the car can be heard especially when driving and it can occur for various reasons. Chevy Sonic Whining Sound: Identification + How to Fix If it gets too low on fluid, itll whine a lot. 0. A corroded exhaust system is prone to leaks, creating more problems for you. This could be a small leak in the exhaust system or air intake system. Signs of Transmission Problems. Due to the complexity and sheer manual labor, it is not recommended as a DIY project. Humming noise coming from the dashboard when truck is off. How Long Will A Wheel Bearing Last After It Starts Making Noise? If when you press the gas pedal a humming noise is heard, then, most likely, the release bearing is damaged and needs to be replaced. 2008-2010 Pontiac G3, G6, Vibe, Wave. Then grab the wheel with both hands at the opposite sides and alternately press and pull. Or, you can watch the video below. If there is, youre usually looking at a worn wheel bearing and not a bad tire. It does sound like a wheel bearing from your description. Since 2008 we have transformed into an informational portal that provides technical information based on personal experience, as well as trust resources (owner's manuals). The mileage depends on the driving style and the quality of the wheel bearing. RECALLS! In most scenarios, if you encounter humming sounds when driving, there could be a problem with components such as bearings or transmission. This works on 2011 CHEVROLET CRUZE SONIC ENGINE MOUNT REPLACEMENT FAST \u0026 EASY! Heres how to diagnose a squeaky serpentine belt: ChrisFix(YouTube), Serpentine Belt Diagnosis (this site). If the wheel has play when it is lifted up it will make narrowing the problem down really easy. If you hear gears grinding while shifting a manual transmission, you may have a problem . The faster you drive your Sonic, the louder the humming noise gets. If its cupped badly enough, youll feel the unevenness. You can also use the method outlined above, where you rock your Sonic while its moving to see if there is a change in pitch. That is RIDICULOUS, Cheryl. It should change pitch with driving speed if that is the case. chevy sonic humming noise Uneven tire wear can also happen if youve installed cheap brand tires in your Sonic. As long as you have the dipstick out, go ahead and check the transmission fluid color. When the wheel bearing rotates, there is high friction. Diagnosing Noise From a Manual Transmission - AxleAddict Alternator whine is a product of a drop in voltage between the radio and the alternator itself. One way to do this is by disconnecting the car battery for about 15 minutes. A failing alternator can also make your cars stereo hum while driving. They work in active suspension systems, as well as other systems that use a hydraulic drive. A bad wheel bearing or suspension issue are the most common causes of humming when driving on the highway in the Chevy Sonic. In general, it is advisable to change the second bearing on the same axle even if there is only one defective wheel bearing in your Chevy Sonic. There are also a lot of moving parts that need to be removed and then properly reinstalled to complete the task. Here is an excellent page with way more info on the subject. Changing the bearing assembly looks fairly straightforward, but I want to make sure that this is actually the problem. 0 % 30 % of the time it's the Low Oil Level or Pressure 0 % 27 % of the time it's the Ignition System 0 % 12 % of the time it's the Exhaust Leak 0 % 31 % of the time it's Something else Overheated transmission. In this case, you should replace the hydraulic booster fluid with one that would not freeze in low temperatures, and it is also recommended to revise the pump to prevent its breakdown. Bad wheel bearing A defective wheel bearing can be the cause of humming noise in your Chevy Sonic. To clean the catalytic converter with sodium hydroxide, you'll first need to remove it from the vehicle. The most frequent and common engine noise comes from drive belts. Usually it doesn't happen unless the car has been driven some distance and is completely warmed up, with or without the a/c having been used. The most common symptoms of a bad wheel bearing in Chevy Sonic are grinding or humming noise, knocking or clunking noise when cornering, shaking steering wheel, body vibration, uneven or abnormal tire wear, play in wheel, and vehicle pulls to one side when driving in a straight line. Determining when the noise is at its worst helps pinpoint which side the failing wheel bearing or other drivetrain component is on. The symptoms are somehow similar to a damaged wheel bearing, the noise increases when the car speeds up. The wheel bearings in Chevy Sonic are designed in such a way that they are absolutely maintenance-free. Show example Chevrolet Sonic Noise from engine or exhaust Inspection prices Your car's engine makes quite a racket. When you first start your car, the serpentine belt may make a loud and long whining sound before going relatively quiet. Bad wheel bearings and bad tires have a similar sound. A humming sound heard at idle has to be something that moves even while the car doesnt. Sometimes driving accentuates noises that are heard while idling. If you can do so where no other traffic is around, get the noise to happen, then steer the car side to side, not real quick but sort of like going through a slalom course. We always perform a final test drive after the work is completed to be sure the problem is resolved. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. This sound may be a sign of a slackened belt, in which case the tensioner roller or its wear and tear may be responsible. If you have difficulty changing gears, maybe shifting too late or even too soon, you might want to check the transmission fluid levels. Other factors can also contribute to premature bearing failure on your Sonic, like driving with unbalanced tires or poor wheel alignment. Chevy Malibu Forum is the best place for owners of the sedan to connect with the community and discuss MPG, mods, and more. Like in the case of a damaged wheel bearing and low transmission oil level, the sound is louder. It is more difficult to diagnose the condition of the wheel bearing for four-wheel-drive cars. Home Troubleshooting Chevy Sonic bad wheel bearings symptoms, causes and diagnosis. The following suspension issues usually cause cupping: If you find cupping on the inside tread of your Sonics tire, suspect an issue with the wheel alignment. Its very common on these cars for the mounts to wear out! Impacts of all kinds are much more damaging to bearings than the high loads. A damaged alternator means that the normal voltage will not be maintained in the cars electrical system. 2. A bad wheel bearing can cause vibrations in the steering wheel of Sonic, particularly if the front wheels are affected. This usually gives the technician an idea of whereto look. RECALLS! Had transmission rebuilt (Pro).My problem is that when it gets around 35, 8L90E Specs, Performance, and Identification, TH400 Transmission Specs, ID, and Common Problems, Chevy Silverado Humming Noise Getting Louder With Speed: How to Fix, Chevy Spark Humming Noise Getting Louder With Speed: How to Fix, Mazda 6 P0320: Meaning, Causes, & Diagnosis, Bad wheel bearings, tires, alignment, missing wheel weight(s), None, but bad suspension components can be dangerous. But if the seals fail, water and dirt can enter inside the wheel bearing and contaminate the lubricant. If you had the patience to read the entire article, you realized that there are quite a few parts that can cause humming noise. If your Chevy Sonic has a humming noise at high speed, it can be distracting and, depending on the cause, dangerous. Check the fluid level and fill it back up to the factory fill line. With Sodium Hydroxide. Whining when starting can be frustrating to diagnose since you constantly have to start and restart your Chevy Sonic to duplicate the conditions that caused the sound to begin with. The first step in diagnosing the problem is taking the vehicle for a test drive. If your Chevy Sonic is experiencing a whining noise, its is often going to be caused by something in the engine compartment. 10 Reasons Why Your Car Makes Noise When You Turn It Off, Car Makes Noise When Stopped In Drive 7 Causes, Top Causes Of Engine Squealing Noise + Solutions, Reasons Why Police Officers Touch Your Car When They Stop, 9 Reasons Why Car Hazard Lights Won't Turn Off, Why Does My Car Smell Sulfur: 7 Common Reasons, Car Jerks When Shifting From Park To Reverse Top Reasons, Leaking Coolant From The Bottom Of Engine Top Causes. We've also provided an audio sample of each issue to help determine what's causing the hum. If its cupped badly enough, youll feel the unevenness. We can expect some interesting, holistic, and pleasurable blogs with his flair for writing and his love for cars. 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. It does sound like a wheel bearing from your description. If they fail, hum and vibration may be heard in the operation of such systems, and they will need to be completely changed. 2 Views. CHEVY SONIC MISFIRES, RUNS ROUGH, But NO CODES, OBD2, DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR. An inner CV joint is a part of the transmission and its role is to send torque to the drive wheels. I can really hear it well when I let go of the gas since the engine quiets down. It is normal operation. This can cause a ticking noise as the object that is stuck rotates around the wheel and then touches the road. When your Chevy Sonics water pump goes bad, itll make a squeaking sound. The common causes of uneven tire wear are unbalanced wheels, improper wheel alignment, overinflated or underinflated tires, and worn suspension or steering parts. The noise is the vacuum pump turning on, completely normal and necessary. While the vehicle was parked, the ignition would inadvertently start and the rpms increased violently. Lastly, always have your car serviced by reputable companies to avoid defective installment of components. Less common cause is failing transmission. If you found one or more damaged bearings, then you need to change them as soon as possible. Some customers may comment on a clunk or thump noise coming from the front suspension while driving over . Damage to the wheel bearing is not easy to notice in the preliminary stages, as the noise is barely noticeable. It sounds like a truck, idling on the street in front your house. If your Sonics stereo is making a whining noise, it is usually caused by an alternator whine condition. We always let you know what the repair costs will be before proceeding with the repair. If its partially failed this will mean that the engine temperature, including the coolant temperature, will be above normal, so you will have to be careful and change the bearing or the entire pump as soon as possible. Chevrolet Sonic has a ticking noise/sound - EngineHum Loud humming increases with speed, sounds like a wheel It was the PVC pressure bladder That's built in to the valve cover. I believe past 07' wheel bearings are covered under the 5 year/ 100000 mile warranty. We have a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic! If the sound changes at the same time, it makes sense to check the correct placement of the hoses, they should not bend. Weve also provided an audio sample of each issue to help determine whats causing the hum. Because it is heated in motion, it can stick, and this is caused by driving like this for a longer time. You can also recognize a defective wheel bearing if there is too much play. If your car tires are unbalanced, the strain you put on the wheel bearings will take a toll on them. Off-road and snow tread tires are notorious for making a loud humming sound. Rust in the exhaust system is caused by moisture obtained from the chemical reactions and rain. Acura ILX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura Integra P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura RDX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura RL P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura TL P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura TLX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura ZDX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura TSX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura RLX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Acura MDX P0000: Meaning, Causes, How to Fix, Chevy Sonic Humming at High-Speed: Quick Info, How to Tell the Difference Between a Bad Wheel Bearing and Bad Tire, Bad wheel bearings, tires, alignment, missing wheel weight(s), None, but bad suspension components can be dangerous. It is simple. However these noises can also occur due to faults in suspension or steering system components, therefore you should consider a bad wheel bearing if the vehicle presents other system as well, like humming or grinding noise and play in the wheel. The may change when youre turning the wheel, such as when youre parking. 2011 Malibu LTZ 3.6L V6 Red Jewel Tintcoat. The most common causes for humming noise in Chevy Sonic at high speeds are bad wheel bearing, uneven tire wear and using tires with large tread blocks. If you notice that the tires in your Sonic are wearing unevenly, for example losing more tread on the inside, this can also be related to a bad wheel bearing since it can disturb the alignment of the vehicle. Only the power steering pump will change with RPM or the steering wheel. The most common symptoms of a bad wheel bearing in Chevy Sonic are grinding or humming noise, knocking or clunking noise when cornering, shaking steering wheel, body vibration, uneven or abnormal tire wear, play in wheel, and vehicle pulls to one side when driving in a straight line. Driving a car that makes noise from the engine is a nuisance. I put it on the lift wheel doesn't have any play side to side or up and down so assuming wheel bearing is ok. It picks up at the exact point where you can see what cupped tread looks like. Slow or hanging shifts. They cause the wheels to turn easily and at the same time absorb high radial and axial forces. A defective wheel bearing is a very common reason your Sonic will make a humming noise while driving. Signs and Sounds of Transmission Issues - BlueDevil Products If you notice a humming noise that increases in intensity as the engine rises in speed, it points to a malfunctioning transmission pump or pump shaft. If they are replaced at the same time, this saves time and money. High impacts on the bearings also occur on uneven roads or when driving through potholes. With that in mind, this page is divided by when you hear the whining noise and common causes under those conditions. You will want to check it for color and metal content. Check out additional info on a bad or failing wheel bearing. And the more unbalanced the wheels are, the louder the hum will be. - 2011-2016 CHEVROLET SONIC / CRUZE HOW TO REPLACE ENGINE MOUNT 4 STEPSHey guys in this video we show you how we fixed the loud vibration noise that was rattling all over our car! All the indicators on the instrument panel were . You can usually tell if a wheel weight fell off. Does the sound get louder while turning your Sonics steering wheel? Youll hear it match the acceleration of the vehicle. However, how soon they fail depends on driving habits. Even when cornering, you may feel the handling of the vehicle a bit off. A whining sound when accelerating is almost always caused by a bad accessory attached to your Sonics engine. The one good thing to always stay on top of is normal scheduled maintenance. This video is part of a series of videos here's the playlist https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list. However, if your car doesnt have a transmission dipstick, you should have it checked by professionals. These sounds become louder when accelerating. Chevy Sonic makes humming noise at high speeds - causes and how to fix it The likely cause of whining noise will be determined by when you hear the noise, and under what conditions With that in mind, this page is divided by when you hear the whining noise, and common causes under those conditions. Or does it not change with engine speed? Wheel bearings in Chevy Sonic are one of the most crucial and stressed components. chevyguy8893 said: If the wheel has play when it is lifted up it will make narrowing the problem down really easy. Off-road and snow tread tires are notorious for making a loud humming sound. But its more likely your Chevy Sonic has a suspension problem. This could be a small leak in the exhaust system or air intake system. The tire pressure should be in line with the recommended psi. Under normal driving conditions, wheel bearings typically last around 100,000 miles. Jack up each wheel and spin it freely. Any thoughts or advices? If a curve is then also driven through, axial forces occur. Rhythmic thumping noise when car's moving Checking this issue is easy, you just have to shift gear to neutral while driving, if the humming noise disappears, then the input shaft bearing is damaged and you should replace it at a car workshop because its a hard operation. Since a bad wheel bearing can affect the alignment of the vehicle, your Sonic will pull to one side when driving in a straight line. And though the leak could be coming from other car fluids, you may know if the low transmission fluid is the cause through these symptoms: Having low transmission fluid can be caused by: If the issue is with the torque converter or a damaged transmission gasket, you should replace them with new ones. However, how soon they fail depends on driving habits. Youll likely see the spot where the wheel bearing was. If one sounds gritty, that wheel bearing will likely need replacing. Had transmission rebuilt (Pro).My problem is that when it gets around 35, 8L90E Specs, Performance, and Identification, TH400 Transmission Specs, ID, and Common Problems, other serpentine belt section of this article, Chevy Silverado Whining Sound: Identification + How to Fix, Chevy Spark Whining Sound: Identification + How to Fix, Mazda 6 P0320: Meaning, Causes, & Diagnosis, Should stop a few seconds after cranking the vehicle over.