Car is Making a Popping or Pop Noise

If your car is creating a popping noise it means a component has failed or is failing, there is no "normal" popping noise. There are several systems that can make a popping noise such as a heater blend door actuator. Popping can also be generated from a suspension component such as a sway bar link that has become worn and has excessive clearance. These popping sounds can be created either when the car is moving or standing still depending on the system that is generating the noise. Sometimes just turning the ignition key to the on position can begin the popping sound and occasionally a car can pop just sitting in one place. Other pop sounds are created when a system is engaged and then stops when the system is switched off such as an air conditioner system. While still other popping noise are created when the car is driven in curtain conditions such as a bumpy road or at a particular speed. We have list common problems below:

• Inspect Shocks or Struts - The strut or shock in your car is designed to dampen unwanted vehicle motion. If these components become loose or leak they came create popping, banging and rattling noises. To check for this condition inspect the mounting bushings and connecting bolts making sure they are tight and in good condition. Also inspect the shocks or struts for leaks, if oil is detected replace the component with a new unit.
  
  
  Front Strut Leakage
   
• Check Sway Bar Mounts - The sway bar or bars, (some cars have front and rear sway bars) on your car are designed to prevent the car from rolling (leaning) when cornering. These sway bars are mounted to the frame and connected to the suspension arms using connecting links. If either the sway bar mount or the connecting links becomes worn or lose it will generate a banging, popping or rattling sound. To check for this condition check the mounting bolts and bushings, retighten or replace as needed.
  
  
• Checking Drive Axles - Front wheel drive cars utilize front drive axles with CV (constant velocity) joints. When CV joints start to wear they will bind up on acceleration, especially in a turn. This causes a popping sound in the front suspension that transfers to the vehicle. Remove drive axles and inspect flexibility of each CV joint. If a bind or hard spot is observed the CV Joint/Axle needs to be replaced.
  Front Wheel Drive Axle

• Inspecting Tie Rods - The tie rods connect the steering to the spindle which is attached to the rim and tire. These tie rod ends have a ball joint at one end and threads on the other. When the universal or ball joint wears it can cause popping or ticking sounds. Check the tie rod end for wear and replace as needed. (note: car realignment is required when replacing suspension components)
   
• Checking Control Arm Bushings - The control arm bushes are designed to allow the suspension arms to pivot near the frame mount. These bushings are constructed of two metal collars, one large and one small with rubber molded inside the larger collar holding the smaller collar inside. Control arm bushings help prevent road vibration from being transferred to the car frame. With time and usage the rubber inside the bushings can deteriorate allowing the suspension arm to rattle and make bumping sounds. To check for this condition use a flashlight to view the upper and lower control arm bushings. If any rubber is missing or pushed out of the side of the bushing it must be replaced. Control arm bushings are sometimes serviced by replacing the whole suspension arm. To replace the suspension arms or bushings a car repair manual is needed for exact procedures, every car is different (note: car realignment is required when replacing suspension components)
   
• Check Engine for Over Heating - Engine coolant is used to transfer heat from the engine to the radiator; if a coolant leak is present the engine will eventually overheat. When a engine is overheating it can create a popping noise. Never check the coolant level when a engine is hot. Always check the coolant level when the engine is cold, preferably over night. After the engine has cooled off inspect the engine coolant level in the coolant reservoir tank; coolant level should be between the hot and cold marks. If the coolant level is not between the reservoir marks the cooling system may have a leak. - Engine Coolant Leaks
  
  
  Radiator Cap and Coolant Reservoir