Engine ticking sounds, screech 2009 Ford F150

ANSWER : If the ticking sound seems to be dependent on temperature, I might suggest taking a look for an exhaust leak somewhere. Small exhaust leaks will normally begin when cold and diminish as the engine warms, but in my experience, I have seen exhaust manifolds and pipe connections that will respond in the opposite, like you are describing. I’m not sure if this is the case in your situation, but it is another credible place to look.

ANSWER : This noise is likely due to the engine wearing out over time. It is possible that the wrong viscocity of oil was used at the last oil change. I would recommend ensuring that the correct oil was used last time the oil was changed. You can do this by checking your records or if you chage it yourself you may know if the oil is correct or not. If the oil is the correct viscosity, I would recommend using Lucas oil stabilizer as this product was made specifically to deal with this exact issue. You can find it at the local auto parts store.

ANSWER : Hi there – while a screeching noise may be common, it is not "normal". An old belt, whether stretched or glazed, can cause screeching, a loose tensioner will allow belt slip (not good), worn idler bearings, crud in the grooves of the pulleys – these can all cause belt screech, squeal or slipping. I would recommend replacement of the belt and inspection of the pulleys and tensioner by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

ANSWER : Hello – the P1346 problem code you have indicates a camshaft timing problem (variable valve timing to be specific), and is at least part of the cause of low power. The cams are out of time, relative to the crankshaft. The hissing sound from the throttle body area is likely an air leak from a hose, or some other portion of the air intake. The tapping sound could be a variety of faults, worn/leaking hydraulic valve lifter, worn cam, piston slap, etc. I recommend a timing belt service to get the cams properly timed, performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, and give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

ANSWER : On a 1998 engine with 147,000 miles, the noise could come from anywhere. I typically check the engine oil level when cool to verify it is correct. Then, I run the engine for 5 minutes, shut it off, and check the engine oil level again.

If after running it for a short time and the engine oil level is lower, then it is likely you have a sludge build-up in your oil return passages preventing oil from draining back to the oil pan. If so, maybe an engine oil flush is in order. At the mileage, sometimes an oil flush may do harm to your piston rings or may help. You never really know.

If the oil level is correct after running the engine, you should have an oil pressure gauge connected to the engine to verify that it is within specifications to factory numbers to verify the oil pump is working properly.

An engine tapping noise could be anything from connecting rods on the crankshaft to an engine valve lifter. If the noise is a knock-knock in a repetitive motion at a slow speed, I would suspect lower engine problem, like a connecting rod (which requires a complete engine rebuild). If the noise is at a higher frequency, then I would think you have a valve issue which could be repaired at a much lower cost.

Based upon mileage, the feeling of how the engine runs, engine codes (if any), and an unknown level of maintenance, it is difficult to determine the exact issue. You may need an engine repair, a new engine, more oil, an oil pump, or just live with it. I’d have a certified mechanic take a look at it to diagnose and fix the sound that’s coming from your engine.

ANSWER : Anything is possible with enough engineering. The changes you are looking at would take major structural changes and would definitely not be an easy job. You could possibly consult a manufacturing engineer to get more details on how this could actually be carried out and whether it would be feasible.

ANSWER : Based on your video, it is very possible that a valve could be bent or sticking inside the cylinder head. I would recommend checking the oil level and condition to determine if the oil is causing this issue. If not, I would recommend removing the valve cover and inspecting the valves to determine if any damage exists. If any valves are bent or severely sticking, I would recommend having a cylinder head job performed to resurface all of the important parts of the cylinder head. This will also include a full cleaning of the head and valvetrain parts. After this has been done, the engine should run much better.

ANSWER : Hi there. Most of the time, reduced engine power is caused by a restriction of fuel, or the throttle body’s inability to efficiently mix air and fuel. This could be caused by a failing mass air flow sensor, EGR valve or other fuel system components. Since the check engine light is on, you should have a professional mechanic complete an inspection at your location to determine what codes are stored and which components require repair. This should resolve your issue.