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Why does my car sound like a motorcycle?

Recently I’ve noticed that when I’m driving—and especially if I’m accelerating or on the highway—my car makes a lot of noise, like a motorbike or something. Why does my car suddenly sound like a motorcycle?

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Andrew Biro · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear about your vehicle trouble! In general, there are four main issues that could cause your vehicle to start sounding like a motorcycle: damage to the engine, exhaust system, belt, or drivetrain.
  • Damage to the engine: damage to or the deterioration of pistons, valves, or bearings in the engine can produce loud noises
  • Damage to the exhaust system: minor damage or even just a leak in the muffler, resonator, or header pipe can produce loud noises, especially when accelerating
  • Damage to the belt: while the noise a damaged belt makes may not be as loud, it can get worse if the belt fails, resulting in loud noise when accelerating or making turns
  • Damage to the drivetrain: as the system that helps propel your vehicle, the drivetrain and its components are subject to regular wear and tear that can eventually start producing motorcycle-like noises when accelerating
Issues with the engine and drivetrain are the most expensive to fix, so you should always take your vehicle into the shop as soon as possible if you begin hearing unusual noises.
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