“It’s like a muffled squeak followed by a high-pitched bong, and sometimes it just hums. It almost sounds like it’s humming that old ABBA song… oh, I can’t remember the name of it, but it sounds like that.”

Is this how you explain to your mechanic the noise your vehicle is making? Have you ever used the word galonk? Have you ever imitated a Madagascar hissing cockroach when describing a noise or mentioned anything about what it would sound like if someone squeezed a duck… really hard? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you probably need help conveying troublesome sounds coming from your vehicle.

Cars and trucks make lots of sounds; some are normal and some are a definite indication that something is not functioning properly. Most people have a good idea of which sounds are normal and which ones need to be checked out. The important thing is to be as accurate as possible when describing those abnormal noises to your mechanic. Like doctors, mechanics need to have a reasonable and thorough explanation of the “patient’s” symptoms; they will rely on you to give them that information.

Be able to explain when you hear the noise. Is it at start-up or when you turn off the vehicle, when you are going uphill or around a curve, when you’re braking or when the gears shift? Be specific in your explanation.

Next describe the location of the sound. Rather than using the terms “right” or “left” side of the vehicle, you can avoid confusion by referring to the “driver’s side” and the “passenger’s side.” Is the noise coming from the engine, underneath the car, from the rear, around the tires? You may even want to draw a diagram indicating the troublesome spot.

Often a mechanic will test-drive your vehicle and listen for sounds so they can accurately diagnose the problem, but how many times have you taken in your car and it won’t make the noise or “do that thing” for the mechanic? The main way to avoid this frustration is to be an expert, prepared witness.

Explain any and all known “maladies” associated with the noise. There may be vibration or leaking fluid. Explain where you feel the vibration — in the steering wheel, under your feet, etc. Indicate the location of any leak and the color of the fluid if possible. Are there any other noticeable differences in how the vehicle is riding or handling? To repeat: Be thorough and specific in your explanation.

Mechanics expect a certain amount of charades from customers (and they probably enjoy them sometimes), but accuracy in your explanation will help them do a better job of repairing your vehicle and getting you back on the road faster.