The only sounds you want to hear from your diesel-powered vehicle are the purr of a well-running engine or a roar when you rev it up. Sometimes, however, you hear other, odder noises. These usually indicate trouble under the hood, so it’s wise to familiarize yourself with them to know how to respond. Here are five troubleshooting tips for strange diesel engine noises.

Knocking

Somebody’s knocking, but don’t let them in. Knocking sounds have affected engines of all kinds since the earliest days of motorized vehicles. Knocking is most often a sign of fuel issues. Poor-quality fuel or the wrong type of fuel in an engine may induce knocking. Use only high-quality diesel fuel in your vehicle, as suggested by the manufacturer. If it’s not the fuel, inspect the fuel injectors. Faulty injectors lead to uneven fuel distribution. Lastly, a knock may indicate wear and tear in the engine’s components. Periodic inspections and maintenance should help you stay on top of this.

Hissing

Snakes should be the only things hissing, not diesel engines. Hissing could be a sign of a vacuum or exhaust leak. Over time holes and cracks may develop in an engine and its components. Check the hoses and exhaust pipes for obvious (and not-so-obvious) damage and loose connections. Replace or repair them to get rid of the hiss.

Squealing

If only snakes should hiss, then only pigs should squeal. Squealing may indicate issues with the engine’s belts. Inspect them to determine whether they need tightening or replacing. Worn-out belts emit a terrible squeal that’s a prequel to a breakdown. Pulleys are another suspect. Carefully inspect and repair or replace any faulty and failing pulleys to ensure they’re functioning correctly and staying mum.

Clicking and Ticking

What’s that clicking or ticking sound? It might be the invisible vehicle repair clock telling you it’s time to check the valves. Wrongly adjusted valve systems often produce a ticking sound and need readjusting by a qualified professional. Ticking may indicate that you’re behind on your oil changes. Check the dipstick and see if the oil is at the proper level. Top it off, or bring your vehicle in for a new filter and clean oil.

Rattling

Unless a baby or a rattlesnake has taken up residence under the hood, rattling means one of two things. First, something is loose. Loose engine components and mounts may produce rattles. Find and secure them or bring your vehicle in and have a professional do it. Also, look for loose rocks and other hard objects that may be rolling and rattling around in there and clean them out. Catalytic converters also have a habit of rattling when they’re ready to conk out. Have your mechanic inspect it.

Those are just five troubleshooting tips for strange diesel engine noises. Contact us for a consultation if your 6.0 Powerstroke motor or other engine is more “talkative” than you’d like. We may have the parts necessary to fix it!