A car rattling when idling is one of the most common problems for many car owners. It can be unpleasant and frightening to hear a rattling sound when you don’t know what causes it, fortunately, in this article, I will help you diagnose the problem and solve it.
In short, the most common cause of a car rattling when idling is a loose heatshield. The engine heatshield may be loose, therefore, rattling noise can be heard. You need to check and tighten it properly since the heatshield are made from materials like aluminum sheets and foils, the fasteners can rust easily and the screws may become loose and this makes the heat shields start flapping causing a rattling sound on the outside of the vehicle.
Car Rattles when Idle Causes
1. loose Engine Heatshield:
Sometimes it is easy to identify the cause of car rattling when idling. The engine heatshield may be loose, therefore, rattling noise can be heard. You need to check and tighten it properly. Since the heatshield are made from materials like aluminum sheets and foils, the fasteners can rust easily and the screws may become loose and this makes the heat shields to start flapping causing a rattling sound on the outside of the vehicle.
2. Bad Catalytic Converter
If there is any bad catalytic converter, it could cause a rattling sound. If the converter is loose and not fitted properly to its position, it may start rattling and hence will be a source of rattling noise. A catalytic converter contain ceramic-like minerals when it gets bad those can break and produce rattling sounds.
3. Failing Motor Mounts:
You need to check if the motor mounts are failing or not. It may be a source of noise by creating vibration on the inside of the vehicle. Engine mounts are responsible for ensuring that the engine is in place securely to help keep the engine in place they are usually made from rubber to prevent metal parts from directly touching each other and causing vibrations.
4. Bent Pistons or Timing Chains:
It may be a cause of car rattling when idling under certain circumstances by bending the pistons or the timing chains and it may create noise on the inside because of vibrations. The reason behind this is caused by loosening of or damage to clutch or transmission and this would create noise on the inside. You will be able to solve this problem if you repair your engine correctly.
5. Low oil Level:
It is also a potential cause of car rattling when idling. Many people don’t know that low oil level can cause vibration on the inner parts of your engine. You need to check regularly if your car engine oil is full and if not, you need to fill it as soon as possible because it will help to prevent noise while idling.
Can low oil cause rattling?
In short, yes, a low oil level can cause rattling. This can happen when the engine temperature is high because the engine will try to suck more air in through the oil pan. However, if there is not enough oil, air can get sucked in causing a rattling noise and even ruin your engine.
How do I stop my engine from making a rattling noise?
The best way to get rid of engine rattling noise is to take the car you have and go straight to a car garage. Here, you can get a professional mechanic who will thoroughly check your car and repair it if ever there is a problem. Since there are a lot of things that could cause your vehicle to rattle when idling it is best to have the car serviced by a professional as soon as possible.
Conclusion on why is my car rattling
experiencing rattling when idling in your car is one of the most unpleasant noises you may hear. There is no need to panic since it does not necessarily mean a big problem but many times it is caused by some loose heatshields. It is easy to solve this problem but you need to take the vehicle to the nearest mechanic.
