HEADING OFF PROBLEMS - Part 2
by Mac Meguire

If you hear a rumble, a low-pitched rhythmic sound:
That means: Defective exhaust pipe, converter or muffler. Worn universal joints or other drive-line component.

Ping - A high-pitched metallic tapping sound, related to engine speed:
Usually using gas with a lower octane rating than recommended causes that. Check your owner's manual for the proper octane rating. If the problem persists, engine ignition timing could be at fault.

Heavy Knock - A rhythmic pounding sound:
Worn crankshaft or connecting rod bearings. Loose transmission torque converter.

Clunk - A random thumping sound:
Check for a loose shock absorber or other suspension component. Check for a loose exhaust pipe or muffler.

Trouble symptoms you can feel:
Difficult handling, a rough ride, vibration and poor performance are symptoms you can feel. They almost always indicate a problem.

• Steering
  Misaligned front wheels and/or worn steering components, such as the idler or ball joint, can cause wandering or difficulty steering in a straight line.
  
  
• Pulling
  The vehicle's tendency to steer to the left or right - can be caused by something as routine as under-inflated tires, or as serious as a damaged or misaligned front end.
  
  
• Ride and Handling
  Worn shock absorbers or other suspension components - or improper tire inflation - can contribute to poor cornering. While there is no hard and fast rule about when to replace shock absorbers or struts, try this test: bounce the vehicle up and down hard at each wheel and then let go. See how many times the vehicle bounces. Weak shocks will allow the vehicle to bounce twice or more. Springs do not normally wear out and do not need replacement unless one corner of the vehicle is lower than the others. Overloading your vehicle can damage the springs. Balance tires properly. An unbalanced or improperly balanced tire causes a vehicle to vibrate and may wear steering and suspension components prematurely.
  
  
• Brakes
  Brake problems have several symptoms. Schedule diagnosis and repair if:
  
  The vehicle pulls to one side when the brakes are applied.
  The brake pedal sinks to the floor when pressure is maintained.
  You hear or feel scraping or grinding during braking.
  The "brake" light on the instrument panel is lit.