What Causes the Ticking Noise When Accelerating but Not When Releasing the Throttle?
3 Answers
Reasons for the ticking noise when accelerating but not when releasing the throttle: 1. If the sound is not very clear inside the car, it is generally not a major issue. Vehicles often produce corresponding ticking noises, which can be from the fuel injector working or the valve area. 2. Most cars will have slightly louder engine noise during cold starts compared to when the engine is warm. As long as the sound is uniform, smooth, and not harsh, it is usually not a problem. 3. Oil-related issues, such as using low-quality oil or not changing the oil for an extended period, can increase friction between the valves and guides or hydraulic lifters, making various engine noises more pronounced.
I've encountered a similar situation while driving, where there's a ticking sound when pressing the accelerator that stops when released. The most common cause is engine knocking. When accelerating, incomplete fuel combustion leads to irregular explosions in the cylinders, producing this sound, especially in older cars or when using low-octane gasoline. Other factors like aging spark plugs, clogged air filters, or improper ECU tuning can also trigger it. Quickly switching to higher-octane fuel or getting a check-up can help alleviate the issue. Ignoring it for too long can increase fuel consumption and potentially damage the pistons. For safety, it's recommended to visit a repair shop for a comprehensive inspection—they can quickly determine if it's knocking by reading the engine data with a computer. There are fuel additives on the market now that can serve as a temporary fix, but don't delay too long to avoid worsening the problem.
As a car enthusiast, I believe the disappearance of the ticking sound when accelerating is often due to excessive valve mechanism clearance. When accelerating, the valves open and close rapidly, and if the clearance doesn't match, it produces a metallic knocking sound, like a small hammer hitting a drum. This issue is more noticeable during cold starts. You can test it yourself: start the engine while stationary, lightly press the accelerator, and listen for the sound's location. If it's indeed the valves, promptly have a mechanic adjust the clearance to improve the situation, and the cost isn't high. Also, a friendly reminder to pay attention to oil quality and change intervals during regular maintenance. Poor-quality oil can accelerate wear and lead to such abnormal noises. A friend of mine experienced this, and after changing to fresh oil, the sound reduced significantly.
