What Causes the Rattling Noise in the Leiling Engine?
3 Answers
The Leiling's 1.2-liter turbocharged engine is equipped with direct fuel injection technology, so it naturally comes with a high-pressure fuel pump. It is normal for the high-pressure fuel pump to produce a rattling noise during engine operation. The Leiling is a compact car under the Toyota brand, and it is available with two engine options: a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine. The naturally aspirated engine variant is the hybrid version. More details are as follows: 1. 1.2-liter Turbocharged Engine: The Leiling's 1.2-liter turbocharged engine delivers 116 horsepower and a maximum torque of 185 Nm. This engine reaches its peak power at 5,200 to 5,600 rpm and its maximum torque at 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. It features VVT-iw technology and direct fuel injection, with an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with a CVT transmission. 2. 1.8-liter Naturally Aspirated Engine: The Leiling's 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine produces 98 horsepower and a maximum torque of 142 Nm, with peak power at 5,200 rpm and maximum torque at 3,600 rpm. It is equipped with VVT-i technology and multi-point fuel injection, also featuring an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. The electric motor paired with this engine has a maximum power of 53 kW and a maximum torque of 163 Nm. The Leiling's front suspension uses a MacPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension employs an E-type multi-link independent suspension.
I've been running a repair shop for over a decade. The most common causes of the ticking sound in Levin engines are excessive valve clearance or fuel injector issues. Because these Japanese cars are precisely engineered, even minor misalignment can create rhythmic noises, especially noticeable during cold starts. Secondly, if the engine oil is too thin or the level is insufficient, it can lead to friction noises from components. For example, a worn or loose timing chain can produce a similar sound, resembling small hammer taps. Some car owners ignore it, only to end up spending a fortune on engine repairs when the chain breaks. That's why I advise checking the oil immediately upon hearing such sounds. First, try switching to a high-quality full synthetic oil to see if it improves. If not, take it to a professional shop to measure the clearance with diagnostic tools. I recommend regular maintenance every 5,000 kilometers with quality parts—it really helps extend engine life.
I drive my Leiling to work every day, and last week the engine also made a ticking sound, which really worried me. After asking a friend, I learned it might be due to carbon buildup in the fuel injectors or valve adjustment issues, especially noticeable during low-speed idling. Dirty engine oil is another possible cause, and after switching to a synthetic oil with the right viscosity, the noise reduced significantly. It's important to regularly monitor the water temperature gauge and oil warning light. If the unusual noise is accompanied by vibrations or strange smells, pull over immediately to check—don't risk driving further. Here's a little tip: Regularly cleaning the fuel injectors and replacing the air filter can prevent such noises, saving you the hassle of repairs. DIY checks can save money, but safety comes first. If you can't figure it out, it's better to consult a professional mechanic.
