What Causes Loud Valve Noise in the New Santana?
2 Answers
New Santana's loud valve noise is caused by engine oil and hydraulic lifters. The specific reasons are: Insufficient engine oil quantity reduces the oil pump's output or prevents pumping due to air intake, leading to decreased oil pressure. This results in increased wear between the crankshaft and bearings, as well as between the cylinder liners and pistons due to poor lubrication, thus causing loud noise. Damaged hydraulic lifters: Valves rely on hydraulic lifters for automatic clearance adjustment. If damaged, the clearance between the main crankshaft and connecting rod bearings gradually increases, leakage rises, oil pressure drops, leading to louder valve noise. Methods to prevent increased valve noise include: Ensure normal oil level; add the same model of engine oil from the same manufacturer when insufficient. Replace worn oil pump components, grind the inner plane of the pump cover to restore the gap with the gear end face to standard range, ensuring normal operation of the oil pump. Ensure proper use of hydraulic lifters. After long-term engine use, the clearance between the main crankshaft and connecting rod bearings gradually increases, leakage rises, and oil pressure drops. It is necessary to grind the crankshaft, select new connecting rod bearings and main bearings to restore proper clearance.
I've also experienced loud valve noise with the new Santana. After driving the new car for a while, I could hear clear tapping sounds when opening the hood, mainly due to inaccurate valve clearance adjustment. It might be caused by imprecise assembly during production or component loosening after the break-in period. Additionally, insufficient or too-thin engine oil can lead to low oil pressure, preventing proper valve lift and making the noise more noticeable. I first checked the oil level - if low, try adding or replacing the oil. If the noise decreases when the engine warms up, it's not too bad, but if it remains loud, it's best to visit the 4S shop for valve clearance adjustment. Long-term neglect may increase engine wear and maintenance costs. Even new cars require proper care - regularly check oil and belts.
