Why Does My Car Sound Like a Helicopter?

A helicopter typically makes a distinct sound that’s characterized by deep, rhythmic thumping combined with a high-pitched whirring noise. This sound might seem like it can be only made by helicopters, but there are scenarios where a vehicle can make a similar sound. Vehicles aren’t supposed to sound like a chopper. If your car sounds like a helicopter, then it might have issues that need to be resolved.

5 Reasons Why Your Car Makes Helicopter Noises

The helicopter-like noise coming from your vehicle might just be a sign that your vehicle has issues such as the following:

Leaking Exhaust System

A loose or leaking exhaust pipe can make your engine sound louder. Aside from directing exhaust gases to the vehicle’s rear, the exhaust system is also responsible for muffling the sound of the engine. If there’s a leak somewhere in the exhaust system, then your vehicle’s going to have a louder engine note, which can sound like a helicopter.

Keep in mind that a leaking exhaust can cause exhaust gases to enter the vehicle cabin. If you think your exhaust is leaking, you should fix it immediately to ensure your safety.

Underinflated or Flat Tires

Tires can make a flapping noise when they’re flat or underinflated. Tires degrade significantly faster if they’re driven in this state. If your tires are making this noise, you’ll also likely experience excessive vibration. To eliminate the possibility of your tires blowing up or becoming damaged, inflate your tires or patch up their holes immediately.

A Warped Brake Caliper or Rotor

Your vehicle’s brake caliper or rotor can become misaligned. When this occurs, the warped brake rotor will create loud noises and you will feel the brake pedal pulsate when you press on it hard.

Loose Pulley or Belt

Vehicle serpentine belts are known to make whining noises when there’s a lack of tension, a bad bearing, a worn-out alternator or A/C compressor, or if the belt is worn out. The serpentine can make a loud whining noise that can be similar to the sound of a helicopter. If your vehicle has this problem then you need to tighten the serpentine belt tensioner or replace the worn-out belt. This issue can affect the performance of your steering system, air-conditioning, and alternator since these components draw power from the serpentine belt.

Worn-out Wheel Bearing

Wheel bearings can make constant chirping, squealing, or grinding noises when they’re worn out. Most notably the rear-wheel bearing in front-wheel drive vehicles. The sound can also get louder the faster your vehicle is traveling. This can be the reason why your car sounds like a helicopter when accelerating. This issue can be caused by a wheel bearing that has compromised wheel bearing seals.

If you think “My car sounds like a helicopter,” then you should visit a mechanic immediately. They’ll be able to determine the cause of the helicopter noises coming from your vehicle and solve the problem.