Car Making a Whining Noise? 4 Common Causes

Published on July 2, 2025

A high-pitched whining noise from your car can be an annoying and worrying sound. Often, the noise will change in pitch as you accelerate or turn the steering wheel. This is a key clue, as it usually points to a problem with one of the belt-driven accessories on your engine. Let's explore the most common reasons for that whine.

1. Low Power Steering Fluid (Most Common)

This is the number one cause of a whining noise that gets louder when you turn the steering wheel. The power steering pump is a hydraulic pump that makes it easy to turn your wheels. When the fluid level is low, the pump starts to suck in air, which causes it to whine. The whine will be most noticeable when you turn the wheel, especially at low speeds or when parked.

  • Symptoms: A whine that gets significantly louder when turning the wheel. Steering may also feel stiff or jerky.
  • What to do: Check your power steering fluid level (consult your owner's manual for the location of the reservoir). If it's low, you have a leak in the system that needs to be found and repaired.

2. Failing Alternator

The alternator generates electricity to power your car's electrical systems and recharge the battery. Inside the alternator are bearings that allow it to spin freely. When these bearings start to wear out, they can produce a high-pitched whining or grinding sound that is directly related to engine speed—it will get higher in pitch as you accelerate.

  • Symptoms: A whine that changes pitch with engine RPM (not vehicle speed). You might also experience dimming headlights or a battery warning light on your dashboard.
When Does the Whine Happen?

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3. Worn Serpentine Belt or Tensioner

The serpentine belt is a long rubber belt that powers multiple accessories at once (alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor). If the belt itself is old and glazed, or if the belt tensioner that keeps it tight is weak, the belt can slip on the pulleys. This slippage can sometimes create a high-pitched whine or squeal.

4. Bad Water Pump

The water pump circulates coolant through your engine. Like the alternator, it has bearings that can fail. A failing water pump bearing often starts as a light whining sound that can grow into a grinding noise over time. If the water pump fails completely, your engine will overheat.

  • Symptoms: A whining noise coming from the front of the engine. You might also notice coolant leaking from the front of the engine.

What To Do Next

A whining noise is a sign of a component wearing out, and it's best to get it diagnosed before it fails completely and potentially leaves you stranded.

  1. Check Fluids: If you're comfortable doing so, check your power steering fluid level first. This is a common and easy-to-identify cause.
  2. Listen Carefully: Try to pinpoint where the noise is coming from and exactly when it happens. This information is very valuable for a mechanic.
  3. Consult a Professional: A mechanic can use a stethoscope to isolate the noise to a specific component (alternator, power steering pump, etc.) and confirm the diagnosis.