Noise Under The Hood

Posted on October 16, 2016 in Auto Repair

When drivers hear unusual or excessive noise coming from under the hoods of their vehicles, it may be indicative of an engine problem.

If a clicking or tapping noise is heard that gets louder as the engine is revved, it may be an upper valve train ("tappet") noise caused by

low oil pressure
excessive valve lash
worn or damaged parts

This should prompt a check of the dipstick to see if the engine oil is low. If it is, oil should be added.

If the engine is still noisy, a worn or damaged oil pump, a clogged oil pump pickup screen, or a plugged oil filter may be preventing normal oil pressure from reaching the upper valve train components.

TIP: Using motor oil with too thick a viscosity during cold weather can also slow down the flow of oil to the upper valve train, causing noise and wear.

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