Often, if your car is making a weird or unusual noise, that usually signals something might be wrong. Certain sounds can provide important clues about problems and maintenance needs for your car.

NARPRO Executive Director Alan Tarr has created a wonderful resource for consumers, which will help you learn 39 ways to spot potential car repair problems using your senses , entitled the Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Auto and Truck Repair. This guide will help you identify potential car repair trouble by using your eyes, ears, nose and hands!

Here, we give you sneak peek of some of the information you will find in the Guide. If you like what you read, please email administrator@narpro.flywheelsites.com, put GUIDE in the subject line, and request your FREE copy of the Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Auto and Truck Repair.

Squeaks, rattles, rumbles or squeals are not normal sounds any car should make. Here’s a couple examples of what to listen for in your car, to determine whether or not auto repair needs to be performed…

• A sharp, shrill noise, usually signifies something is wrong with the engine speed, such as a loose or worn power steering belt.
• A rumbling sound that is low pitched and rhythmic often means there is a defective exhaust pipe, converter or muffler. Rumbling could also mean that the universal joint or another drive-line component is worn.
• A random thumping or clunking sound means something is loose, typically a shock absorber or other suspension component, or an exhaust pipe or muffler.

Don’t forget, this is just a small amount of information. For NARPRO’s complete Savvy Consumer’s Guide, email administrator@narpro.flywheelsites.com to request your free copy!

NARPRO helps consumers find top, independent and honest auto repair shops and competent auto body shops near where they live, work or travel. Click here to find Phoenix auto body or auto repair shops or to find Tucson auto repair shops.