Are you hearing a rattling or pinging sound from your car? Is the noise coming from the engine area? An engine rattling noise can be a sign that something is wrong, and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Let’s take a look at some possible reasons why your car’s engine is making unusual sounds.
Common Causes for Engine Noises
1. A Rattling Noise from the Engine When Accelerating
Noises coming from the engine when you are pushing on the gas could be caused by several serious issues:
- A loose or weak timing belt
- A failing chain tensioner
- A cracked flywheel or broken flexplate
How to Fix It
Listen closely. Does the noise happen only when you accelerate, or also at idle? Providing this information to your mechanic can help them diagnose the problem faster.
These issues will only get worse over time, not better. It is important to bring your car into the repair shop as soon as possible to prevent more severe engine damage.
2. Noises Coming from the Engine When Idling
A common problem that may be causing a rattling noise while idling involves the engine’s hydraulic valve lifters. This part of your car is responsible for opening and closing the engine’s intake and exhaust valves. When a lifter is not working properly, a loud ticking sound can usually be heard under the hood.
Another issue that could be causing a rattling noise at idle is piston slap. If one or more of your pistons no longer fit properly in the cylinders due to wear, piston slap can occur.
How to Fix It
Both of these are internal engine problems. This is something that should be checked out right away by a qualified mechanic.
3. Engine Noises Happening When the Car Is Hot
An engine ticking noise when the car is hot could indicate low oil pressure. Insufficient oil pressure can be damaging to an engine regardless of its age, so having a qualified mechanic take a look at it is highly advisable.
How to Fix It
When the engine is cool, check your oil level using the dipstick. If it’s low, adding the correct type of oil may quiet the noise. However, the *ticking* itself is a warning that the oil pressure is low, not just the level.
If the oil level is fine but the ticking persists, you have a more serious problem like a failing oil pump or worn engine components. See a mechanic immediately to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Find Help with Your Auto Repair and Services
Car-X has been providing quality, reliable automotive service since 1971. Proper maintenance and service of your vehicle can make a big difference in helping to care for your car.
Call the Car-X Man or schedule an appointment for your vehicle, and we can help repair the issues related to noises coming from your car’s engine—keeping you safe and your vehicle functioning properly.
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