Noises and their usual causes
Costs are typical independent garage prices for the most likely cause. A proper inspection is always worth it, because the same noise can have several sources.
| Job | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Squeal when braking, worn pads | £120 to £250 |
| Grinding when braking, pads and discs | £220 to £400 |
| Knocking over bumps, suspension or links | £90 to £350 |
| Clicking on full lock, CV joint | £200 to £450 |
| Whine that rises with speed, wheel bearing | £150 to £350 |
| Squeal on start-up, auxiliary belt | £90 to £250 |
| Rattle from underneath, heat shield or exhaust | £50 to £250 |
| Ticking from the engine, valvetrain or injector | £150 to £900 |
What affects the cost
When does it happen
Only when braking points at brakes. Only over bumps points at suspension. Rising with road speed points at bearings or tyres. Rising with engine revs points at belts, exhaust or the engine itself.
How urgent is it
Grinding brakes, a knocking that changes the steering feel, and any noise with a warning light are stop-now issues. A light squeal on a cold start is usually far less urgent.
Where is it coming from
Front or back, one side or both, inside or under the car. Telling the garage exactly when and where makes diagnosis quicker and cheaper.
Record it
A short phone video with the noise audible saves a lot of guesswork, especially for intermittent faults that will not happen on the test drive.
Noises that mean stop driving
- Metallic grinding when you brake.
- A loud knocking from the engine that changes with revs.
- A rhythmic thump or roar that gets worse quickly, which can be a failing wheel bearing.
- Any noise accompanied by a red warning light, smoke or a burning smell.
- A sudden loud exhaust roar, which may mean a broken pipe or a stolen catalytic converter.
How to pay a fair price
Describe the noise clearly and attach a photo or video when you request quotes, and garages can give you a far more accurate price without a paid inspection first. RepairRadar lets you send that once and get several local responses back.
Compare local quotesFrequently asked questions
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