Is Valve Ticking Noise Normal?
2 Answers
Car valves are the main components that seal the cylinders. If valve noise is detected, it indicates valve leakage, which directly leads to symptoms such as difficulty starting the vehicle, weak overtaking power, and reduced engine performance. If the valve noise is only slight, it indicates a small valve clearance and does not require repair. However, if the valve noise is loud, it is necessary to check the valve clearance and whether the valve is severely worn to avoid engine damage and major repairs. The causes of valve noise include: 1. A gap formed between the engine valve mechanisms, mostly due to component wear or faulty clearance adjustment, such as wear on the camshaft, rocker arm, or hydraulic lifter. 2. Valve noise caused by aging or loosening of engine mounts or an overly rich air-fuel mixture.
I remember when I was driving my old car, the engine would always make a ticking sound during cold starts. At first, I ignored it, thinking it was just a normal engine noise. But later, the sound became louder during acceleration and uphill driving. After consulting a mechanic, I learned it could be due to excessive valve clearance or lack of oil in the hydraulic lifters. He said valve ticking is common in older cars—if it's a slight noise that reduces after the engine warms up, it might be normal and not urgent. However, if the noise is new or getting louder, it's important to check it carefully because excessive clearance can lead to valve wear and even affect the camshaft. I checked the oil level myself and tried changing the oil, which slightly reduced the noise but didn't eliminate it. Eventually, I went to a professional shop to adjust the valve clearance, and the problem was solved. My advice is, if the noise is abnormal or increasing, first check the oil quality and level, and consult a technician if necessary to avoid major issues. Long-term neglect can damage the engine, leading to more expensive and dangerous repairs.
