When you accelerate your vehicle, you may be met with a clicking noise that can indicate something is wrong. Knowing what to look for and how to fix the issue can save you both time and money. This article will provide all the steps necessary to diagnose and repair a clicking noise when your vehicle accelerates.
Identifying the Cause of the Clicking Noise When You Accelerate
The first step in diagnosing and repairing a clicking noise when you accelerate is identifying the cause of the issue. There are three common issues that lead to an engine clicking sound when accelerating: Excessive Load on Accessories or Components, Worn-Out CV/Universal Joints, and Loose Heat Shields, Belts, or Pulleys.
Excessive Load on Accessories or Components: Your vehicle may start making a clicking noise if any accessories such as power windows, electric seats, AC fans, etc., are consuming too much power from your car’s electrical system. To diagnose this issue it is best to disconnect each component one-by-one until you notice the sound disappearing. Once identified this component should be unloaded so that it does not draw too much power from your car’s system (see below for further info on how to unload accessories).
Worn-Out CV/Universal Joints: Another common cause of a clicking noise when you accelerate is worn-out Constant Velocity (CV Joints) or Universal Joints. This is especially prevalent in front wheel drive vehicles. To identify if this is the source of the clicking sound, it is best to have a mechanic inspect the joint and replace it if necessary.
Loose Heat Shields, Belts, or Pulleys: Finally, it is possible that loose heat shields, belts, or pulleys can cause your car to make a clicking sound when accelerating. To diagnose this issue visually inspect all these components and tighten any that are loose. It may also be necessary to replace any parts that are worn out or damaged beyond repair.
Repair Strategies for Fixing the Clicking Noise When You Accelerate
Once you have identified the cause of your vehicle’s clicking noise when you accelerate there are different repair strategies for fixing the issue.
Unload Accessories & Components: If an accessory such as power windows, electric seats etc., are drawing too much power from your car’s electrical system then it should be unloaded so that it does not draw too much power. To do this you can disconnect the accessory’s battery connections or replace the fuse with a lower wattage one.
Replace CV/Universal Joints: If it is determined that worn-out CV/Universal Joints are causing the clicking noise when accelerating, these should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. This should be done by a qualified mechanic or auto technician.
Tighten Loose Heat Shields, Belts, or Pulleys: Finally, if any heat shields, belts, or pulleys are loose this can produce a clicking noise when you accelerate. To fix this issue visually inspect all these components and tighten any that are loose. If any of these parts are damaged beyond repair then they will need to be replaced in order to stop the clicking sound from occurring when you accelerate your vehicle.
Conclusion
It is important to diagnose and repair the cause of your vehicle’s clicking noise when it accelerates quickly in order to prevent further damage and maintain optimal performance of your car’s engine and other systems. By following these steps you can diagnose what is causing the noise and take necessary steps towards fixing it quickly and effectively.
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