Answers
Oct 12, 2023 - 02:05 PM
Hi there,
We can only give possible causes by that ticking sound (noise) in the engine. Here are the possibilities to check:
1. A faulty (collapsed) valve lifter/tappet.
2. Low engine oil.
3. A defective camshaft.
4. A faulty variable valve timing actuator.
For more info about this problem, click this link from our CarParts.com resource blog in our website.
Oct 13, 2023 - 08:57 AM
Hi Katvillan812,
It's always best to have the car diagnosed by a reputable mechanic in person. You may have a sticky valve lifter/tappet, worn valve components, worn cam lobe among other possibilities as well. I would first start with checking the oil. Is it low? Is it thin? Does it smell burnt? Try changing it with a fresh, thicker viscosity oil and new filter. That's on the cheaper end. If that doesn't work, then you'll need further diagnosis. On the more expensive side, you may need to have the valve train addressed. (Either replaced or repaired). I'd be careful driving it still, since it could cause serious engine damage should that specific valve let loose. However I know people who have driven older cars with high mileage such as yours for years with upper engine taps or lower end knocks. It's really up to you what you want to do with the car. Drive it in to the ground or try to sell it for a few bucks as is and buy something else. Good luck. Hope this helped.
It's always best to have the car diagnosed by a reputable mechanic in person. You may have a sticky valve lifter/tappet, worn valve components, worn cam lobe among other possibilities as well. I would first start with checking the oil. Is it low? Is it thin? Does it smell burnt? Try changing it with a fresh, thicker viscosity oil and new filter. That's on the cheaper end. If that doesn't work, then you'll need further diagnosis. On the more expensive side, you may need to have the valve train addressed. (Either replaced or repaired). I'd be careful driving it still, since it could cause serious engine damage should that specific valve let loose. However I know people who have driven older cars with high mileage such as yours for years with upper engine taps or lower end knocks. It's really up to you what you want to do with the car. Drive it in to the ground or try to sell it for a few bucks as is and buy something else. Good luck. Hope this helped.
Oct 17, 2023 - 11:52 AM
A ticking or knocking sound, especially from the top end of the engine, can be caused by various factors. Based on your description, here are a few potential causes for the noise in your 2006 Chrysler 300 Touring:
Lifter Tick: Hydraulic lifters, also known as tappets or cam followers, can sometimes produce a ticking sound when they wear out or if there's low oil pressure. This is a common source of top-end engine ticking.
Valve Train Noise: Components like the rocker arms, pushrods, or valves themselves can wear and produce a ticking sound. This is also considered a top-end noise.
Exhaust Leak: Sometimes, a small exhaust leak near the exhaust manifold can sound like a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold.
Piston Slap: Though usually more of a "knock" than a "tick", worn piston skirts can cause a noise, especially when the engine is first started.
Low or Dirty Oil: Old, dirty, or low engine oil can cause ticking sounds, especially if the oil isn't providing sufficient lubrication to the valve train.
Given the age and mileage of your vehicle, wear-related noises are not uncommon.
Is it fixable?
Yes, most engine noises can be fixed. The challenge is determining the exact cause and then weighing the cost of the repair against the value of the vehicle.
Is it worth fixing?
Here are some factors to consider:
Diagnosis: First, get a clear diagnosis from a reputable mechanic. You need to know what the exact problem is and get an estimate for the repair.
Vehicle Condition: You mentioned that the car has been well-maintained and garage-kept. If the rest of the vehicle is in good condition (body, interior, other mechanical systems), it might justify the repair, especially if you have a sentimental attachment to it.
Cost vs. Value: Compare the repair cost with the value of the car. Given the high mileage, even in good condition, the car's market value might not be very high. If the repair cost approaches or exceeds the car's value, it might not be economically justifiable.
Future Reliability: Even after addressing the ticking noise, consider other potential maintenance or repair items that might come up due to the vehicle's age and mileage.
Alternative Options: Consider the cost of replacing the car versus fixing it. If you decide not to repair it, you could sell it "as-is," use it as a trade-in, or keep it as a backup vehicle.
Given that the vehicle has sentimental value and has been well taken care of, if the repair is not prohibitively expensive, you might decide it's worth fixing. However, if the diagnosis reveals a major engine issue requiring significant costs, it might be time to consider replacement options. Whatever you decide, make sure to prioritize safety and ensure the vehicle is roadworthy.
Lifter Tick: Hydraulic lifters, also known as tappets or cam followers, can sometimes produce a ticking sound when they wear out or if there's low oil pressure. This is a common source of top-end engine ticking.
Valve Train Noise: Components like the rocker arms, pushrods, or valves themselves can wear and produce a ticking sound. This is also considered a top-end noise.
Exhaust Leak: Sometimes, a small exhaust leak near the exhaust manifold can sound like a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold.
Piston Slap: Though usually more of a "knock" than a "tick", worn piston skirts can cause a noise, especially when the engine is first started.
Low or Dirty Oil: Old, dirty, or low engine oil can cause ticking sounds, especially if the oil isn't providing sufficient lubrication to the valve train.
Given the age and mileage of your vehicle, wear-related noises are not uncommon.
Is it fixable?
Yes, most engine noises can be fixed. The challenge is determining the exact cause and then weighing the cost of the repair against the value of the vehicle.
Is it worth fixing?
Here are some factors to consider:
Diagnosis: First, get a clear diagnosis from a reputable mechanic. You need to know what the exact problem is and get an estimate for the repair.
Vehicle Condition: You mentioned that the car has been well-maintained and garage-kept. If the rest of the vehicle is in good condition (body, interior, other mechanical systems), it might justify the repair, especially if you have a sentimental attachment to it.
Cost vs. Value: Compare the repair cost with the value of the car. Given the high mileage, even in good condition, the car's market value might not be very high. If the repair cost approaches or exceeds the car's value, it might not be economically justifiable.
Future Reliability: Even after addressing the ticking noise, consider other potential maintenance or repair items that might come up due to the vehicle's age and mileage.
Alternative Options: Consider the cost of replacing the car versus fixing it. If you decide not to repair it, you could sell it "as-is," use it as a trade-in, or keep it as a backup vehicle.
Given that the vehicle has sentimental value and has been well taken care of, if the repair is not prohibitively expensive, you might decide it's worth fixing. However, if the diagnosis reveals a major engine issue requiring significant costs, it might be time to consider replacement options. Whatever you decide, make sure to prioritize safety and ensure the vehicle is roadworthy.
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