Top 5 Reasons for Rattling in the Transmission

August 19, 2022

Top 5 Reasons for Rattling in the Transmission
Alpharetta Transmission Repair
Alpharetta Transmission Repair and Service

Looking for our updated 2025 guide? Read it here.


When you’re driving and your car suddenly starts rattling, it can be both alarming and frustrating. You may not know what’s causing the noise, making it challenging to figure out how to fix it. This problem is widespread and can be caused by a variety of things.

In this blog post, we’ll share five possible reasons your car may be rattling when accelerating.


1. Broken Heat Shield

A broken heat shield is one of the most common reasons for a car to rattle when accelerating. The heat shield is a metal plate that protects your car’s engine from excessive heat. 


If it’s damaged or broken, it can cause a rattling noise.


Heat shields can be broken by a variety of things, including:

  • Hitting a pothole or other object in the road
  • Running over a curb
  • Wear and tear over time

A broken heat shield can cause severe engine damage if not fixed.


2. Worn Out Exhaust Components

Another common reason for a car to rattle is worn-out exhaust components. 


Over time, your car’s muffler, catalytic converter, and other exhaust components can degrade and break down. This can cause a rattling noise, particularly when accelerating.


In some cases, you may be able to have your muffler or catalytic converter repaired. However, you may need to replace these parts entirely.


3. Damaged Engine Mounts

If your car’s engine mounts are damaged, it can cause a rattling noise when accelerating. Engine mounts are designed to keep your engine in place and prevent it from moving around too much. However, they can break down over time or be damaged by accident.

A rattling noise from your engine is often the first sign that your engine mounts are damaged.


4. Poorly Lubricated Transmission

You could also hear a rattling noise in your transmission because it’s poorly lubricated.


Transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating and cooling your car’s transmission. If the fluid level is low or the juice itself is dirty, it can cause your transmission to overheat and produce a rattling noise.


Checking and changing your transmission fluid is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself.


5. Damaged Valve Train

Finally, a rattling noise can also be caused by a damaged valve train. The valve train is responsible for opening and closing your car’s valves. If it’s damaged, it can cause your engine to misfire and produce a rattling noise.


Get Rid of Rattling in the Transmission

Rattling noises when accelerating can be caused by various issues, from loose parts to engine trouble. If your vehicle has a rattling noise in the transmission or engine, it’s essential to consult a professional mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the issue.

America’s Service Station is here to help you get your car back on the road quickly and safely. 

Contact us today for all your car repair needs!


FAQs


How do I fix a rattling noise when I accelerate?

If you’re hearing a rattling noise when you accelerate, take your car to a mechanic for an inspection. They can determine what is causing the problem and fix it accordingly. 


Why does my car make a rattling sound when I accelerate?

One possibility is that it’s something loose in the car. Another case is that there’s something wrong with the engine or transmission. 

If it’s a noise coming from the engine, it might be a problem with the valves, piston rings, or bearings. If it’s a noise from the transmission, it might be a problem with the gears, bearings, or seals.


Why does my car sound like it’s rattling underneath?

It could be several things — perhaps something is caught in the wheel well or one of the car’s suspension components is loose. If it’s only happening when you accelerate, it could be that your vehicle needs a tune-up. Have a qualified mechanic take a look and diagnose the problem.


Can low oil cause a rattle when accelerating?

Low oil could cause a rattling noise when accelerating. This is because if there isn’t enough oil in the engine, the moving parts will start to rub against each other and create friction, which will cause noise.

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