Why is my Subaru so loud while driving?
A loud Subaru is usually caused by issues with the exhaust, engine or turbo components, or by road and wind noise. In many cases, the noise comes from an exhaust leak, a loose heat shield, worn drivetrain parts, or aggressive tires. A quick, careful check can often identify the source before more serious damage occurs.
Subarus use a variety of engines and drivetrains, including boxer engines and, in many models, turbocharged setups. This means noises can stem from multiple systems depending on the model year and trim. Normal wear, after-market parts, or changes to the vehicle’s components can all influence how loud the car sounds at highway speeds or during acceleration. The key is to listen for where the sound originates and whether it changes with RPM, speed, or steering and braking.
Common causes of a loud Subaru
The following list highlights the most frequent sources of excessive noise in Subarus and how they typically present.
- Exhaust leaks or damaged components (manifold, downpipe, mid-pipe, catalytic converter, muffler). A leak often sounds like a hiss or roar that grows louder with RPM and can be felt as heat near the engine or under the car.
- Loose or damaged heat shields and exhaust hangers. Rattling or banging noises, particularly on bumps or at idle, commonly point to a loose shield or bracket.
- Worn or burnt-out exhaust components (muffler, resonator, clamps). Over time, rust or vibration can loosen parts and increase noise.
- Turbocharger noise (for turbo models). A distinct whine, whistle, or flutter under boost can indicate a boost leak, worn turbo seals, or intake restrictions.
- Engine or drivetrain wear (belt/tensioner, accessory pulleys, timing components). Squeals, chirps, or grinding noises can come from worn belts or pulleys or worn timing components.
- Road and wind noise (tires, suspension, and body seals). Low-profile or aggressive tires, poor tire balance, or gaps around doors/windows can amplify wind and road noise.
- Aftermarket exhaust or intake modifications. Non-OEM exhausts or mismatched components can dramatically increase noise levels.
- Drivetrain or wheel bearings, CV joints, or differential noise. Whines or grinding sounds during acceleration or cornering can indicate worn components.
If your Subaru is louder than usual, a systematic check of the exhaust, engine components, and tires is a good first step before considering more extensive repairs.
Diagnosing the noise
To pinpoint the source, start with a systematic approach. The following checks cover common exhaust, engine, and road-noise suspects.
Exhaust system checks
These checks focus on leaks, heat shields, and components in the exhaust path.
- Inspect for visible exhaust leaks around the manifold, connections, or mid-pipe. Listen for a hiss or loud exhaust note that changes with engine RPM.
- Check heat shields and hangers for looseness or rust. A rattling sound often points to a loose shield or broken mount.
- Look for a damaged muffler, resonator, or corroded clamps. A deteriorated muffler can produce louder, uneven exhaust tones.
Concluding: If you find a leak or a loose shield, repair or replace the affected part to restore quiet operation.
Engine and turbo checks
Checks for engine-related noise, belt/tensioner, and turbo issues (if applicable).
- Listen for turbo-related sounds (whine, whistle, or flutter) especially under acceleration in turbo models. Persistent turbo noise may indicate a boost leak or worn seals.
- Check for belt or pulley noises from the serpentine belt system. Worn tensioners or bearings can cause squealing or chirping sounds.
- Note any misfires or rough idle that accompanies loud exhaust noise. Misfires can make the exhaust sound louder or more irregular.
Concluding: If engine or turbo-related noises persist, a diagnostics check can confirm boost leaks, worn components, or misfires that require repair.
Road noise and tires
Checks for tires and suspension, wind noise, and seals around doors/windows.
- Evaluate tire condition and balance. Worn or mis-sized tires can produce a roaring or humming sound at speed.
- Inspect suspension components for worn bushings or loose links that can amplify road rumble.
- Check door gaskets, seals, and window weatherstripping for gaps that allow wind noise to enter the cabin.
Concluding: Addressing tire wear, balance, or damaged suspension components can significantly reduce road noise.
Maintenance and fixes to reduce noise
Regular maintenance can prevent or mitigate loud noises. The following steps help preserve a quiet ride.
- Tighten or replace loose exhaust hangers and heat shields; repair or replace damaged shields.
- Repair exhaust leaks promptly by replacing gaskets, clamps, or sections as needed.
- Replace worn muffler, resonator, or damaged sections to restore normal exhaust tone.
- Inspect tires for wear, balance, and proper inflation; replace worn tires and consider noise-reducing tire options.
- Check wheel bearings, CV joints, and differential for play or roughness; replace as needed.
- Inspect and replace worn serpentine belts or tensioners; ensure the belt system is quiet and aligned.
- For turbo models, check for boost leaks and inspect intake plumbing and intercooler for signs of wear or damage.
These maintenance steps can help maintain a quieter ride and prevent more serious issues from developing.
When to seek professional help
If you cannot identify the source, or if the noise is persistent, changes with speed or load, or is accompanied by warning lights, smoke, burning smells, or a loss of power, stop safely and have a qualified technician diagnose the vehicle. Early inspection can prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Summary
Loud driving noises in a Subaru typically point to exhaust system issues, engine or turbo-related sounds, or road and wind noise from tires and seals. A structured inspection—starting with the exhaust, then engine and turbo components, followed by road-noise sources—often reveals the cause. Addressing leaks, securing shields, replacing worn parts, and maintaining tires and suspension can restore a quieter ride. When in doubt, a professional diagnosis provides definitive answers and safeguards your vehicle’s performance and comfort.
Why does my Subaru sound like a plane when I drive?
A roaring or airplane-like noise at highway speeds typically indicates worn front wheel bearings. Inspect the bearing by lifting the wheel and checking for play or roughness when rotating.
Are subarus supposed to be loud?
Whether you drive a Crosstrek, Outback, Legacy, or WRX, Subaru's engineering is built for quiet strength. So if you hear something unusual, trust your instincts.
Why do subarus have so much road noise?
Subaru focuses more on performance and practicality rather than luxury. So, things like sound deadening and sound insulation take a back seat. Tire noise and road noise are more noticeable because of this.
Why does my car sound louder than usual when driving?
Loud engine noise during driving often relates to exhaust leaks or worn engine mounts causing vibrations. A louder engine noise only when driving can stem from exhaust system leaks, such as a cracked manifold or loose clamps. Worn engine mounts may also transmit more vibration and noise.
