What are the consequences of valve tappet noise?
2 Answers
Valve tappet noise can cause the following consequences: 1. Difficulty in starting the vehicle; 2. Weak acceleration when overtaking during driving; 3. Decreased engine power. The reason for valve tappet noise is: increased valve clearance, which affects the closing timing and sealing of the intake and exhaust valves, thereby impacting the engine's performance. Causes of engine valve noise include: 1. Too high or too low crankcase oil level, affecting the engine's oil pressure; 2. Severe wear of the valve guide; 3. Dirty valve lifter; 4. Increased clearance between the valve lifter, camshaft, or valve seat; 5. Damaged hydraulic lifter, causing internal oil pressure to drop too quickly, leading to abnormal valve opening and closing.
As someone who frequently deals with car issues, I understand that failing to address valve tappet noise promptly can lead to serious consequences. Firstly, it causes the engine noise to become increasingly louder, which is both annoying and distracting while driving, affecting comfort. Over time, there will be a noticeable drop in power, sluggish acceleration, difficulty climbing hills, and increased fuel consumption—potentially costing dozens of yuan more per 100 kilometers. The worst-case scenario is accelerated wear on the valve mechanism, which may lead to burnt valves or bent valve stems. In severe cases, piston collision can occur, causing internal engine damage that requires a costly overhaul, with expenses easily exceeding tens of thousands of yuan. If you hear any unusual noises, promptly adjust the valve clearance or replace the components—don't let a small issue escalate into a major problem. Such minor issues, if left unchecked, can accumulate and lead to more complex failures, such as degraded cylinder sealing, which affects the engine's overall lifespan. Therefore, regular inspections are crucial.