Car Engine Sounds Like Airplane When Accelerating

Causes

• Exhaust leak: A hole or crack in the exhaust system can cause exhaust gases to escape, creating a loud, airplane-like sound.
• Intake leak: A leak in the intake system can allow unfiltered air to enter the engine, creating a similar sound.
• Valve problems: Worn or damaged valves can cause the engine to run poorly, resulting in a loud, rattling sound.
• Spark plug problems: Fouled or damaged spark plugs can cause the engine to misfire, creating a popping or crackling sound.
• Timing problems: Incorrect timing can cause the engine to run rough, resulting in a loud, knocking sound.
• Fuel injector problems: Dirty or clogged fuel injectors can cause the engine to run lean, resulting in a loud, hissing sound.
• Turbocharger problems: A damaged or leaking turbocharger can create a loud, whistling sound.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of the airplane-like sound, you will need to:

1. Listen for the sound: Try to identify where the sound is coming from. Is it coming from the engine, the exhaust, or the intake?
2. Check for leaks: Inspect the exhaust system and intake system for any holes or cracks.
3. Check the valves: Remove the valve covers and inspect the valves for any signs of wear or damage.
4. Check the spark plugs: Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for any signs of fouling or damage.
5. Check the timing: Use a timing light to check the timing of the engine.
6. Check the fuel injectors: Remove the fuel injectors and inspect them for any signs of dirt or clogging.
7. Check the turbocharger: Inspect the turbocharger for any signs of damage or leakage.

Repair

Once you have identified the cause of the airplane-like sound, you will need to repair it. The repair may involve:

• Fixing the exhaust leak: Repair or replace the damaged exhaust component.
• Fixing the intake leak: Repair or replace the damaged intake component.
• Replacing the valves: Replace any worn or damaged valves.
• Replacing the spark plugs: Replace any fouled or damaged spark plugs.
• Adjusting the timing: Adjust the timing of the engine using a timing light.
• Cleaning or replacing the fuel injectors: Clean or replace any dirty or clogged fuel injectors.
• Repairing or replacing the turbocharger: Repair or replace the damaged turbocharger.

Prevention

To prevent the airplane-like sound from recurring, you can:

• Regularly inspect the exhaust system and intake system for any leaks.
• Have the valves inspected and adjusted regularly.
• Replace the spark plugs at the recommended intervals.
• Have the timing checked and adjusted regularly.
• Have the fuel injectors cleaned or replaced regularly.
• Have the turbocharger inspected and serviced regularly.