Engine noise suddenly increased in a 94 renault Clio. Safe to drive?

Question

Hi,

A small part (a 2"ish plastic collar) appeared in my drivers footwell today and appeared to have broken off somewhere under the dash. The engine noise seemed to increase suddenly when this happened. I can't notice any difference when driving it but the extra noise in un-nerving. Does this sound like anything major or should I just carry on driving it untill I can get it to a garage?

Cheers,
Chris

Answer 1

It's probably a bung that blanks off holes for wires or cables that pass through the bulkhead between the interior and the engine compartment (for a left hand drive model). Body shells are made symmetrically for all countries and the spare holes are plugged with bungs. Without it being in place, rainwater could get in when driving in wet weather and, of course, that's why the noise is getting through. Not urgent until your feet get wet! Probably a cheap fix too.

Answer 2

Turn the radio up! Only kidding. I can't think of anything inside any car that could fall off and cause the engine to sound louder. The only thing I can think of is that it's some kind of grommet which blanks off a hole not used in your particular model. If this is the case, then the increased engine noise maybe coming through the hole. Either way, it's best to get it checked out.

Answer 3

this is the alternator belt, the motor vehicle doesnt have a fan belt. This belt is close to the front of the motor vehicle on the nicely suited hand area, (drivers area) and can be heard slipping fairly while this is been raining. this is tightened up yet this danger is that the tighter belt will reason tension on the bearings interior the alternator which will choose changing. attempt drying the belt with the aid of hand and see if that makes a diffrence

Answer 4

Well if its driving ok, no juddering, no smoke or leaks of fluids it should be ok until you can get it to a garage, but don't wait months.