I have a 2002 Max auto. Some timed when I speed up going slow on a hill, I hear an engine clatter. Wondered if it might be the fuel, or is this normal? Always use supreme, and got my first oil change today, at 4000 km., and asked the dealer about it. He said to try using a lower octane gas. This make sense to any of yoou?

 

What octane level is "supreme"? I would think you would need to use a higher level octane and not lower.

 

I experience the same problem. But I realize I'm only using 89 octane. Alot of folks recommend Cheveron 93. I'm going to try that.

 

I've read a lot of information about the type of fuel you should be using in the maxima to avoid a phenomenon known as knocking. That knocking/clattering sound is the engine misfiring due to incorrect temperatures in the cylinder. A higher octane (at least 91) gas will correct this problem.

I believe there is also a TSB (technical service bulletin) for engine knocking (and something about engine coils) -- you should check that out on this site.

Also search for knocking as your keyword. Most helpful thread I found: http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....light=knocking

 

That makes no sense: if what you're experiencing is pre-ignition knock, a higher octane gas is what should fix it.

However, your Max has a knock sensor which will prevent it if it's working correctly. There is a common problem, covered by a TSB, with the coil packs on 2k's and 2k1's that can cause knock but the dealer won't fix it unless the you are running premium gas, which it sounds like you already are. In any case, what the dealer suggested makes no sense at all.

Of course the clatter could be something else entirely different. Maybe the timing chain rattle some Max's have experienced? Anybody have experience with this problem?

BuddyWh

 

I've noticed the same thing on mine every now and then. And I always use 93 Octane. It seems to happen at lower RPM's oddly enough. I've never heard it in the higher RPM's.

 

But it doesn't sound like engine knock. It actually sounds like a clattering of something hitting something.

 

I have had the same thing on and off on my 95 Max and 2000 I30, even when I use 93 octane, but more likely if I use a lower octane. Since I have noticed it on both cars I figured it is "normal knock". I have read that some degree of knock is "normal"

If it seems to be getting worse then I would have the dealer check if its a bad coil pack. So far on my 2000 I30 has the degree of knock as the 95 Max.