What Causes the Clicking Sound After Starting the Car?
3 Answers
If your car makes a clicking sound when starting, it indicates that the hydraulic tappet is worn or the system is losing pressure. If the lubrication system pressure is insufficient, or the hydraulic tappet is severely worn, the pressure inside the hydraulic tappet is not enough to support the plunger, resulting in increased valve clearance. This causes a clicking sound from the valve impact during engine operation. Here is additional information about hydraulic tappets: 1. Most modern car engines use hydraulic tappets, which are components of the engine's valve train and are usually installed on the cylinder head. 2. Their function is to open and close the valves under the drive of the camshaft while automatically adjusting the valve clearance to ensure zero clearance, reducing impact, lowering noise, and extending the lifespan of components.
With over a decade of car repair experience, I can say that the clicking sound is mostly caused by a worn-out battery or a faulty starter motor. Insufficient current during startup can make the starter gear slip, producing this noise. It's especially common during cold winter starts because low temperatures reduce battery efficiency. I recommend checking the battery voltage, starter motor condition, and alternator charging status as soon as possible to avoid breaking down on the road. Regular maintenance is crucial, particularly for older car models that often get neglected in this aspect. Don't delay the inspection to prevent it from escalating into more serious electrical issues.
I've been driving for ten years and have encountered the clicking sound several times, each time due to battery issues. Insufficient current at startup causes the clicking, making it feel like the motor is struggling. Last time, replacing the battery immediately silenced it. Regular maintenance should include testing battery life, especially in damp or cold weather when electronic components are prone to moisture and aging, leading to similar faults. A simple method is to check if the voltage drops below 12V. Addressing issues early saves trouble.
