What are the consequences of valve tappet noise?

[DeAvery]

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.

[DePaige]

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.

[LailaAnn]

I think valve tapping is something that really can't be taken lightly, especially for those driving older cars—the sensation is even more noticeable. If left unrepaired, the consequences can be quite troublesome. At first, it's just a harsh engine noise, but gradually, the power weakens. When you press the throttle, the car barely responds, and fuel consumption quietly increases. Long-distance drives become even more costly. The worst fear is a sudden major issue, like a stuck valve causing the engine to stall—how dangerous would that be on the highway? Every time I drive, I worry about my family's safety. If the damage becomes severe, repairs could cost thousands, which is hard to bear. Getting the valve clearance checked and adjusted early is the way to go—peace of mind and cost savings. With proper maintenance, the car can last several more years, reducing future headaches.

[GabriellaAnn]

I'm concerned about the safety risks of prolonged valve tappet noise. The consequences can be severe: it increases internal engine friction, amplifies noise (distracting driver concentration), reduces power output, causes sluggish acceleration, increases fuel consumption (raising travel costs), and in severe cases may lead to valve burning or sticking - potentially causing engine stall or failure. On highways, this could easily lead to accidents. Immediate attention is required.