Can the Vios start if the valve tappets are misaligned?
3 Answers
The Vios can start even if the valve tappets are misaligned. The function of the valves is to intake air into the engine and expel exhaust gases after combustion. Taking the 2021 Vios as an example, it is a compact car with the following dimensions: length 4435mm, width 1700mm, height 1490mm, wheelbase 2550mm, fuel tank capacity 42L, and curb weight 1070kg. The 2021 Vios is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 110PS, maximum power of 81kW, maximum torque of 138Nm, and paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
I previously encountered the issue of misaligned valve lifters in my Vios, which is a mechanical fault. Uncoordinated hydraulic lifters can cause inaccurate valve clearances. If they become misaligned, the engine might still start, but it will definitely be unstable—you'll hear noticeable ticking noises, experience severe shaking at idle, and suffer from weak acceleration. Once, when I was driving this car, I had difficulty with a cold start. After barely managing to start it, the power output was only half of normal, and fuel consumption skyrocketed. The usual causes are insufficient oil or low oil pressure in the hydraulic system, or wear and aging of the lifters themselves. If not addressed promptly, the valves may seize and collide with the pistons, leading to a complete engine overhaul or even scrapping. I recommend not forcing the car to run—first, check the oil level and quality to ensure it's clean and flows well. Take it to a professional shop as soon as possible to adjust the valve clearances and replace parts using diagnostic tools—it’s both cost-effective and safe. Remember, letting a small issue turn into a major problem isn’t worth it.
As a veteran driver who's been behind the wheel of a Vios for nearly 20 years, I can tell you that valve lifter issues are pretty common. The engine might still start up, but don't expect smooth operation – it'll feel like the car is gasping for breath with no power, and those annoying noises just won't quit. From my experience, even if you manage to start it, the idle will be rough and acceleration sluggish, making it ten times harder to drive than normal. The main culprits are usually poor maintenance, clogged hydraulic lifter oil passages, or wear and tear. If you ignore it, not only will you waste fuel, but you might also end up damaging the camshaft, leading to costly repairs. My advice? The moment you notice something's off, pull over and check. Try changing the oil first, or better yet, take it straight to a mechanic. The longer you drive, the more you learn – addressing issues promptly saves you a world of trouble down the road.
