I have this strange noise that I can only hear at idle in park or when I'm driving real slow. Now the engine drives real smooth and I don't feel any problems. It's a very quiet noise seems to come from the front driver side. It goes tap tap tap, then goes away. Was wondering if anybody else had this sound and knows what it is. I drive a 98. Most people wouldn't hear it, unless they are listening for it.

 

Could be the timing chain. It is known for our 4th gener's that over time the tensioner(s) will cause this "tapping" noise. I had mine ('95) replaced when my car was only about a year-and-a- half old! Good thing for warranty! Even today (6 years later) the noise is still there, but not as loud as before. But, in your case, you said the sound is coming from the driver's side, but it could be the timing chain that your actually hearing even though it's located on the passenger's side.

 

Thanks. I think you are probably right. Should I be concerned? It doesn't seem to get louder.

 

Actually, I think i noticed this sound too last night after installing my frankencar midpipe... i was sittin there listning for sounds and i heard a steady sounds of *clicks* and it came somewhere from the passenger side tho.... most likely the timing chain, i hope.

 

The timing chain usually rattles upon start up and then becomes quiet. It doesn't tap, it rattles, which by the way is your first indication that your chain tensioner is failing.

What you may be hearing is valve trane noise and it's perfectly normal on our VQ engines. Our valve setup is a bucket and shim design, which is a bit noisier then a hydraulic lifter design.

 

I have that! How do I remedy it?

 

So I take it I don't need to worry about it. Thanks yall.