An automotive malfunction characterized by the generation of atypical sounds during vehicular directional changes indicates a potential issue within several key mechanical systems. These noises, varying in timbre and intensity, can manifest as squeals, grinding, pops, or clicks dependent upon the specific component implicated. Such auditory indicators often suggest friction, wear, or damage within steering, suspension, or drivetrain elements.
Addressing anomalous vehicular acoustics is paramount to ensuring operational safety and preventing escalated repair costs. Undiagnosed and unaddressed sources of noise can precipitate mechanical failures, compromising vehicle handling and stability. Early identification and remediation can often circumvent more extensive and costly component replacements. Furthermore, understanding the etiology of these noises contributes to informed maintenance practices and extends the functional lifespan of the vehicle.
The subsequent discussion will delve into the common sources of these sounds, outlining diagnostic approaches and potential corrective actions. Each section will address a specific system and its associated noise profiles, providing a structured framework for identifying and resolving these mechanical anomalies.
1. Power Steering
The power steering system, a technological marvel designed to alleviate the effort required for directional control, often becomes a source of auditory distress when compromised. Its operation, typically silent, is essential for modern vehicle handling. When anomalies arise, characteristic noises serve as diagnostic breadcrumbs, leading to the identification of potential failures.
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Low Fluid Level
The power steering system relies on hydraulic fluid to transmit force. When the fluid level diminishes, the pump struggles, drawing air into the system. This aeration results in a distinct whining or groaning sound, especially noticeable during turns. The sound is the audible manifestation of the pump’s cavitation as it attempts to compress air, an inefficient and damaging process.
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Failing Power Steering Pump
The pump itself, a rotary vane or gerotor mechanism, is subject to wear and tear. Over time, internal components degrade, leading to reduced pressure output and increased noise generation. A failing pump often emits a constant, high-pitched whine that intensifies with engine speed and steering input. This sound indicates imminent pump failure, necessitating replacement.
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Contaminated Fluid
Power steering fluid, like all hydraulic fluids, is susceptible to contamination from dirt, metal particles, and degraded seals. Contaminants act as abrasives, accelerating wear within the system and causing increased noise. Grinding or buzzing sounds may be evident as these contaminants circulate through the pump and steering rack.
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Belt Slippage
The power steering pump is typically driven by a serpentine belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft. If the belt becomes worn, glazed, or improperly tensioned, it can slip on the pump pulley, producing a loud squealing noise, particularly during turns when the pump load is highest. This slippage not only reduces power steering assist but also generates significant heat, further damaging the belt.
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Leaking Hoses or Seals
Leaks within the system cause the pump to work harder and introduce air into the system, ultimately leading to noise. Signs of leakage includes the need to top off fluid regularly and observing fluid drops around the pump or hoses. The failing to check these can damage other engine components.
In summation, aberrant noises emanating from the power steering system are indicative of compromised mechanical integrity or fluid condition. These auditory signals necessitate prompt investigation to preclude catastrophic failures and maintain optimal vehicle handling characteristics. Ignoring these warning signs can result in steering system failure and possible accidents.
2. CV Joints
The constant velocity joint, or CV joint, serves as a critical link in the powertrain of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles. It facilitates the transmission of engine power to the wheels while accommodating the suspension’s movement and steering angles. The characteristic symptom of a failing CV joint is often an audible clicking or popping sound, most prominent during turns. This acoustic event marks a departure from the component’s intended silent operation, signaling impending failure. The severity of the sound generally correlates with the degree of wear within the joint itself. Consider, for example, a sedan experiencing subtle clicking sounds only during sharp turns; this contrasts sharply with a truck exhibiting loud, repetitive popping during even the slightest steering input.
The source of this noise lies within the joint’s internal mechanism. CV joints house a series of ball bearings held within a cage and tracks. As the joint endures wear, typically from loss of lubrication or ingress of contaminants, the bearings develop play within their tracks. This looseness allows the bearings to impact against the cage and tracks during articulation, generating the telltale clicking or popping. Neglecting these auditory warnings results in complete joint failure, rendering the vehicle immobile. The cost associated with such a failure extends beyond the replacement of the CV joint, potentially including damage to adjacent components like the axle shaft or transmission.
Ultimately, understanding the connection between CV joint health and audible anomalies is vital for vehicle maintenance. Recognizing the characteristic clicking or popping sound as an indicator of CV joint degradation enables proactive intervention. Replacing a worn CV joint preemptively prevents a more serious breakdown and ensures the continued safe and reliable operation of the vehicle. Early identification not only saves time and resources in repair costs, but also contributes to the longevity of vehicular performance.
3. Wheel Bearings
The hum of the open road, often the soundtrack to journeys both mundane and momentous, can sometimes be disrupted by a more sinister tone. When a vehicle begins to vocalize during turns, particularly with a groaning or rumbling sound, suspicion often falls on the wheel bearings. These seemingly simple components, vital to smooth and silent rotation, endure immense stresses. Their failure, though gradual, announces itself audibly, a mechanical lament warning of impending complications.
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The Silent Guardians
Wheel bearings are engineered for quiet competence. Encased within the wheel hub, these bearings facilitate the free rotation of the wheel around the axle. Their internal componentsrollers or balls, races, and sealsare precisely manufactured and lubricated to minimize friction. Silence is their hallmark, a testament to their proper function. It is when this silence is broken that concern arises.
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The Grumble’s Genesis
The groaning or rumbling sound arises from degradation within the bearing itself. Over time, the constant load and rotation lead to wear on the bearing surfaces. The lubricant may break down, allowing metal-to-metal contact. This contact generates friction and heat, further accelerating wear. Eventually, the smooth surfaces become pitted and rough, transforming silent rotation into an audible complaint. The sound often intensifies during turns, as the load on the affected bearing increases.
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Lateral Load Amplification
During a turn, the weight of the vehicle shifts, placing increased lateral load on the wheel bearings on the outside of the turn. A worn bearing, already compromised, struggles to handle this increased stress. This is why the noise is often more pronounced during turning maneuvers. The turning motion exaggerates the flaws within the bearing, making the sound more apparent and aiding in pinpointing the affected wheel.
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Cascade of Consequences
Ignoring the warning signs of a failing wheel bearing carries significant risks. Continued use can lead to excessive heat buildup, potentially damaging the wheel hub, spindle, and even the brake components. In extreme cases, a severely damaged wheel bearing can seize completely, causing the wheel to lock up. This sudden loss of control can have catastrophic consequences, particularly at high speeds.
The tale of the wheel bearing’s demise serves as a reminder of the importance of attentive vehicle maintenance. The groaning or rumbling during turns is not merely an annoying sound; it’s a mechanical cry for help. Prompt diagnosis and replacement of the failing bearing can prevent a cascade of damage and ensure the continued safety and reliability of the vehicle. Listening to the vehicle’s subtle cues is often the key to averting more significant mechanical failures.
4. Suspension Components
Within the intricate orchestra of an automobile, the suspension system performs a crucial role, mediating between the unforgiving road and the vehicle’s chassis. This assembly, often overlooked until its functionality wanes, is frequently implicated when atypical sounds arise during directional changes. The genesis of these noises, when a vehicle is turned, frequently trace back to compromised or failing suspension components, demanding a comprehensive evaluation of the system’s integrity.
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Worn Ball Joints
The ball joint, a pivotal connector in the suspension linkage, facilitates the articulation of the wheel hub. Over time, the lubricating grease within this joint can dissipate, leading to increased friction and wear. A telltale sign of a failing ball joint is a distinct clunking or knocking sound, particularly audible when traversing uneven surfaces or during turning maneuvers. The noise is often the result of excessive play within the joint, allowing components to impact against each other. Failure to address this issue can result in compromised steering control and accelerated tire wear. Examples include an older sedan exhibiting a pronounced clunk when navigating a pothole-riddled city street, or a truck emitting a sharp knock during a tight parking maneuver. The clunk sound when turn happen is usually coming from the worn ball joint.
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Degraded Bushings
Bushings, composed of rubber or polyurethane, serve as damping elements within the suspension system, absorbing vibrations and minimizing noise transmission. These components are strategically located at suspension pivot points, isolating the chassis from road irregularities. With age and exposure to environmental elements, bushings can degrade, crack, or become detached. The resulting symptom is often a squeaking or creaking sound, particularly noticeable when the suspension is compressed or extended during turns. For instance, a station wagon negotiating a roundabout might produce a persistent creaking sound indicative of failing sway bar bushings, or an SUV could emit a squeak when entering a driveway at an angle, suggesting worn control arm bushings. Degraded bushings can significantly impact handling and ride quality.
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Damaged Struts or Shocks
Struts and shock absorbers are responsible for controlling suspension movement, preventing excessive bouncing and maintaining tire contact with the road surface. When these components fail, their ability to dampen oscillations diminishes, resulting in a variety of audible symptoms. A common indication of a failing strut or shock is a knocking or thumping sound, often accompanied by excessive body roll during turns. Consider a minivan experiencing significant body lean and a pronounced thudding sound when turning onto an off-ramp, or a coupe exhibiting a bouncy ride and a repetitive knocking sound over minor road imperfections. Ignoring these symptoms compromises vehicle stability and increases braking distances. The shock and strut is essential to minimize noise and vibration.
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Broken Springs
The vehicle’s springs support the weight of the vehicle and maintain its ride height. Over time, springs can weaken or, in extreme cases, fracture. A broken spring can manifest as a metallic clanging or rattling sound, particularly when the vehicle is subjected to changes in weight distribution during turns. An example might be a pickup truck displaying an uneven stance and emitting a loud clang when loaded with cargo and making a turn, or a hatchback exhibiting a persistent rattle emanating from the rear suspension. A compromised spring not only affects ride quality but also poses a safety hazard by altering the vehicle’s handling characteristics. Moreover, Broken spring will lead to imbalance in the wheels.
In essence, the interplay between suspension components and the sounds produced during turning serves as a diagnostic window into the vehicle’s mechanical well-being. A keen awareness of these auditory cues, coupled with a systematic inspection of the suspension system, enables proactive maintenance and prevents more extensive damage. The symphony of sounds emitted by a vehicle, when properly interpreted, provides invaluable insights into its operational state, leading to timely repairs and ensuring continued safety and performance. Sounds can tell the condition of the vehicle suspension.
5. Brake System
The narrative of vehicular acoustics often intersects with the brake system, a network of components critical to both stopping and, indirectly, directional control. When anomalous sounds emerge during turns, the brake system, though not directly responsible for steering, warrants careful scrutiny. Its proximity and interplay with other rotating components can make it a prime suspect in the investigation of unfamiliar vehicular noises.
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Worn Brake Pads
The friction material on brake pads, designed to engage with the rotor to decelerate the vehicle, gradually wears away through repeated use. As the material thins, a built-in wear indicator, often a small metal tab, begins to contact the rotor. This contact generates a high-pitched squeal, serving as an auditory warning that pad replacement is imminent. The squeal may be more pronounced during turns due to slight variations in wheel speed and pressure distribution across the braking surface. For example, a driver might notice a faint squeal only when turning left at a moderate speed, a subtle clue to impending brake maintenance. Neglecting this warning can lead to rotor damage and increased repair costs.
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Glazed Brake Pads or Rotors
Extreme heat generated during hard braking can cause the friction surfaces of the brake pads and rotors to become glazed, resulting in a hard, smooth surface. This glazing reduces the coefficient of friction, diminishing braking performance and often producing a squealing or grinding sound. The sound may be more evident during turns as the forces acting on the braking surfaces change, exacerbating the effects of the glazing. A vehicle consistently driven aggressively on winding roads might develop glazed brakes, manifesting as a loud squeal when approaching a sharp turn. Correction typically involves resurfacing or replacing the affected components.
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Loose or Damaged Brake Hardware
The brake system relies on various hardware components, including calipers, brackets, and springs, to maintain proper pad alignment and function. Over time, these components can become loose, corroded, or damaged, leading to rattling, clicking, or grinding sounds. These sounds may be particularly noticeable during turns as the suspension flexes and the forces on the brake system change. Consider a pickup truck used frequently for off-road excursions; the rough terrain could loosen brake hardware, resulting in a persistent rattle audible during cornering. Addressing loose hardware prevents further damage and ensures safe braking performance.
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Contaminated Brake Components
The brake system is susceptible to contamination from road debris, brake dust, and fluids such as oil or grease. Contaminants can accumulate on the brake pads and rotors, interfering with their proper function and generating a variety of noises, including squeals, grinding, or scraping sounds. These sounds may be more pronounced during turns as the contaminants are redistributed across the braking surfaces. A vehicle parked near a construction site might accumulate significant brake dust, leading to a grinding sound when braking during turns. Cleaning or replacing the affected components is essential to restore optimal braking performance.
The acoustic narrative of the brake system offers critical insight into the vehicle’s overall health. Sounds emitted during turns, though sometimes subtle, can signify underlying issues within this vital system. Attentive listening and prompt investigation prevent minor issues from escalating into major safety concerns, preserving both the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s well-being.
6. Tire Rub
The audible manifestation of vehicular distress often presents as a subtle scraping or grinding, a sound that resonates more forcefully during the execution of turns. This aural cue, frequently attributable to tire rub, signals an unwelcome interaction between the rotating tire and the vehicle’s structure. It is a symptom, a consequence of spatial incompatibility within the wheel well, and a harbinger of potential mechanical complications.
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Insufficient Clearance
Tire rub frequently arises from a simple geometric truth: the available space within the wheel well is inadequate for the installed tire. This lack of clearance can stem from various sources, including the installation of tires exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended dimensions, aftermarket wheel choices with incorrect offset, or suspension modifications that alter the vehicle’s ride height. The consequence is an abrasive encounter between the tire’s sidewall and the inner fender liner, suspension components, or even the vehicle’s frame. Imagine, for example, a sport utility vehicle fitted with oversized off-road tires, its owner discovering a distinct rub during tight turns at low speeds. This is the sound of ambition colliding with physical constraints.
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Suspension Sag or Damage
The suspension system, designed to maintain optimal ride height and control wheel movement, can contribute to tire rub when compromised. Worn or broken springs, sagging struts, or damaged control arms can alter the vehicle’s geometry, reducing the available clearance between the tire and the surrounding structure. In such scenarios, the tire may only rub under specific conditions, such as when the vehicle is heavily loaded or encountering a bump during a turn. Consider an aging sedan, its rear suspension sagging under the weight of passengers and cargo, its tires now audibly scraping against the fender liners during even gentle cornering. The rub signals not just spatial conflict, but systemic degradation.
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Deformed Body Panels
Prior collisions, even seemingly minor incidents, can subtly alter the vehicle’s body structure, impacting the dimensions of the wheel wells. Bent fender liners, misaligned bumpers, or shifted frame components can reduce the available clearance, leading to tire rub. This is particularly insidious, as the rub may not be immediately apparent but manifests only after the installation of new tires or during specific driving maneuvers. A car, post fender-bender repair, starts rubbing when the alignment changes. Such instances highlight the long-term ramifications of structural damage.
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Loose or Missing Hardware
The wheel well houses various components secured by fasteners, including fender liners, splash shields, and wiring harnesses. If these fasteners become loose or missing, these components can shift, encroaching upon the tire’s space and causing rub. The sound is often a rattling or scraping, intermittent in nature, and directly correlated with wheel rotation. Picture a technician, skipping some hardware, leading to car issues while turning. Such neglect exposes the fragility of mechanical integration.
The occurrence of tire rub serves as a diagnostic prompt, an invitation to scrutinize the interplay between tire dimensions, suspension integrity, and body structure. The scraping sound is more than just an annoyance; it is a symptom of a deeper spatial or mechanical incompatibility, demanding resolution to prevent tire damage, suspension wear, and potential safety hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
The language of automobiles is not always spoken in precise terms; sometimes, it whispers through groans, clicks, and squeals. Decoding these sounds, particularly those that manifest during turning, is crucial. The following inquiries address prevalent uncertainties surrounding these vehicular utterances.
Question 1: A repetitive clicking emanates from the front wheels during turns; what is the likely source?
Imagine a seasoned traveler, his journey marked by the rhythmic clicking of his worn leather boots. Similarly, that repetitive clicking, most pronounced during turns, frequently implicates a failing CV joint. This joint, responsible for transferring power to the wheels, succumbs to wear over time, its internal components developing play. The clicking is the sound of this play, a mechanical countdown to potential joint failure. Ignoring the signal is akin to ignoring the fraying threads on a lifeline.
Question 2: A high-pitched squeal accompanies turning maneuvers; what system should be investigated?
Consider a violin, its strings protesting under excessive tension. That high-pitched squeal, particularly during turns, often points toward the power steering system. Low fluid levels, a failing pump, or a slipping belt can all contribute to this auditory distress. Each turn places additional demand on the system; the squeal is the system’s strained response to this demand. The vehicle needs help urgently.
Question 3: A groaning or rumbling sound intensifies with speed and becomes more pronounced during turns; what component is suspect?
Think of an old millstone, its bearings grinding under the weight of its task. Similarly, a groaning or rumbling that amplifies with speed and turning often indicates a failing wheel bearing. These bearings, essential for smooth wheel rotation, endure immense stress. The sound is their lament, a mechanical sigh of wear and tear. The car needs immediate repair and replacement.
Question 4: A clunking or knocking noise is heard when turning over uneven surfaces; what suspension components should be examined?
Picture a knight’s armor, its plates clanking during a bumpy ride. Similarly, that clunking or knocking noise over uneven surfaces during turns frequently implicates worn ball joints or other suspension components. Excessive play within these joints allows components to collide, generating the distinct sound. The vehicle is about to collapse soon.
Question 5: Can the brake system generate noise during turns, even without applying the brakes?
Envision a rusty gate, its hinges protesting even the slightest movement. The brake system, though primarily responsible for stopping, can indeed generate noise during turns, even without braking. Loose brake hardware or contaminated brake components can cause rattling or grinding sounds as the suspension flexes and the forces on the brake system change. A quick check is helpful to resolve it.
Question 6: What does it mean if a vehicle is rubbing against something during turns?
Consider a ship, grinding against a narrow harbor. Tire rub, the scraping or grinding sound during turns, signals spatial conflict. It often indicates tires exceeding the wheel wells which needs an adjustment. Ignoring it guarantees the worst scenario.
In summation, the sounds emanating from a vehicle during turns serve as a diagnostic chorus, each note providing clues to potential mechanical issues. Attentive listening and prompt investigation are essential for maintaining vehicle health and ensuring safe operation. Ignoring these signs can lead to severe and more damage in the end.
The subsequent section will address preventative maintenance strategies aimed at mitigating these auditory anomalies.
Mitigating Auditory Anomalies
The lifespan of an automobile is a narrative etched in miles, punctuated by maintenance intervals. While unforeseen breakdowns are inevitable, proactive care significantly mitigates the incidence of auditory anomalies during directional changes. Vigilance, diligence, and adherence to established maintenance protocols form the cornerstone of this preventative strategy.
Tip 1: Regular Fluid Level Inspections
Imagine a parched desert traveler, his survival contingent on access to water. Similarly, the power steering system’s functionality hinges on adequate fluid levels. Periodic inspection of the power steering fluid reservoir, typically a translucent container with level markings, is paramount. A low fluid level not only compromises steering assist but also introduces air into the system, generating telltale whining noises during turns. Top off as needed, and investigate any persistent fluid loss; it may signify a leak requiring immediate attention. The power steering fluid should always be in optimum level.
Tip 2: Scheduled CV Joint Boot Examination
Envision a protective shield, its integrity vital to safeguarding the treasure within. The CV joint boot, a flexible rubber or neoprene covering, serves a similar purpose, protecting the CV joint from contaminants and retaining lubricating grease. Regular visual inspection of these boots for cracks, tears, or grease leakage is essential. A compromised boot allows dirt and moisture to infiltrate the joint, accelerating wear and leading to the characteristic clicking sounds during turns. Early boot replacement prevents costly CV joint failure. The CV Joint boot examination is essential.
Tip 3: Tire Rotation and Inflation Practices
Consider a team of oxen, their combined effort maximized by even distribution of the load. Similarly, proper tire rotation and inflation ensure uniform wear and optimal handling. Rotating tires at recommended intervals evens out wear patterns, preventing uneven loading that can stress suspension components and contribute to noises during turns. Maintaining correct tire inflation reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel economy and minimizing strain on the steering system. The inflation is recommended to be maintained for the maximum tire life cycle.
Tip 4: Periodic Suspension Component Assessment
Picture a bridge, its structural integrity verified through regular inspections. Likewise, the suspension system requires periodic assessment to ensure its components are in sound condition. Listen for clunking, knocking, or squeaking sounds during turns or when traversing uneven surfaces. Visually inspect ball joints, bushings, struts, and shocks for wear, damage, or leakage. Prompt replacement of worn or damaged components maintains proper alignment and minimizes noise transmission. Suspension is one of the most important part to be checked.
Tip 5: Brake System Maintenance Adherence
Imagine a vigilant watchman, constantly monitoring the castle walls for signs of weakness. In the automotive realm, regular brake system maintenance serves a similar purpose. Inspect brake pads for wear, and replace them before they reach the wear indicators. Ensure rotors are free from excessive scoring or glazing. Lubricate caliper slides and inspect brake hardware for corrosion or damage. Proper brake maintenance ensures optimal stopping performance and minimizes noise generation during turns. The braking system should also be considered.
Tip 6: Steering system check
Any steering noise should be checked by professional and immediately fix it by replacing. A car steering wheel needs to be in the best shape to maneuver the car without losing control.
Tip 7: Wheel Balancing and Alignment
Maintaining wheel balancing and alignment of each tires is important in maintaining vehicle and stability. The tires need to be in balance and aligned to minimize noise from turning.
Adhering to these preventative measures reduces the likelihood of auditory anomalies during directional changes, extending the vehicle’s lifespan and improving driver safety. Proactive maintenance is not merely an expense; it’s an investment in reliability, longevity, and peace of mind.
The succeeding section will address the correlation between driving style and the emergence of these acoustic symptoms.
The Whispers of the Turning Wheel
The preceding discourse has traced the labyrinthine pathways of vehicular sound, specifically those auditory disturbances arising during directional changes. From the clicking lament of failing CV joints to the strained squeal of a power steering system under duress, each noise serves as a diagnostic marker, a subtle but insistent communication from the machine. Ignoring these whispers is akin to disregarding a distress signal from a distant shore; the consequences, though perhaps not immediate, are invariably dire.
Let the knowledge imparted herein serve as a catalyst for heightened awareness. When the vehicle begins to vocalize during a turn, heed the warning. Investigate, diagnose, and remediate. For within those seemingly innocuous sounds lies the potential for catastrophic failure, a silent threat to both vehicular integrity and personal safety. The road ahead demands not only skillful navigation but also attentive listening; the discerning driver understands that the vehicle speaks, and its voice must be heard.
