• Registered users are encouraged to enable MFA/2FA to add an aditional layer of security to their account. More information can be found here: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online/activate-2-step-verification-on-your-email

Rattle noise guidance please

Messages
18
Hi all.... new purchase 04 ep3.
Upon cold start and only on cold start (over night) it has a rattle around the cam cover area, it appears after
around 5-10 seconds roughly and slowly goes away over a few minutes as it warms up.
No other issues with the car, other than clutch bite is a little low but nothing drastic!

If this is the chain/tensioner is it worth digging deep to get it all replaced? Will it become more of an issue or cause any more damage as it is?

Many thanks....
 
When were the valve clearances last done?

Could be tensioner and chain, could equally be the VTC gear.
 
Ah I see... not so straight forward!
The cars on 114k very good service history, but no evidence of valve clearance done. The noise is definitely to the left side of engine and no other noise at any
other time.

I actually took a video today but obviously it didn’t make the noise just when I wanted it to!

Thanks
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Does sound like the timing chain tensioner,Tegiwa do good deals on genuine honda ones, have alook in the traders section, obviously you will have to replace the chain as well & get the tappets set at the same time
 
Is it advisable when it’s only minor on a cold start?
And any idea on a price for it all, I guess Honda will be
best place for the job?
Thanks
 
If the chain stretches it can bring on the eml with incorrect phase between cam & crankshaft sensor and can possably not start
As for cost , have a search for an independent Honda specialist they will be cheeper than the dealers
Price around £450 job done from an independent
 
I got my chain and tensioner replaced at TI Motorsport ( Tegiwa ) which included valve clearance for £340 all in. I’ve been there for work twice now, can’t fault them, great job done, professional and recommended to any one.
 
My FN2 developed the same at 100k miles.

Has new OEM chain kit and aftermarket cams, only on cold start and stops once warm. Only does it cold and only at idle, any revs at all and noise goes completely.
Sounds like it's from the front by ear but narrowed it down to the inlet side between cylinders 3&4. Two specialists have had a look and both determined it's the head but without taking it off they can't confirm what exactly.

Checked timing, clearances, vtc gear, torque of cam caps etc

Be interested to know if you find anything as I'm leaving it for next year as may refresh the block.
 
Well the dilemma is do I cough up at lot at Honda for the chain kit doing or leave it!
It’s not a big problem, at least not right now, I’m unsure if it will get worse or go very worse in a big way??
Or not get any worse at all....
 
Well the dilemma is do I cough up at lot at Honda for the chain kit doing or leave it!
It’s not a big problem, at least not right now, I’m unsure if it will get worse or go very worse in a big way??
Or not get any worse at all....

Watched the vid and yours does sound a lot worse, taking the cover off and checking clearances, timing would be my first job.
If it was mine I'd also do the chain judging by the sound but always hard to say over phone / youtube quality.
 
That was from a freezing cold early morning start, the main noise does go
away fairly quickly still. Will get a price from Honda I guess!
 
I would get it done sooner rather than later as you can't predict when it might get worse or by how much. You don't want to find it suddenly won't start because of it.
 
Grinspeed in Leyland, they'll sort you out at a decent price. I wouldn't take a Honda anywhere else up this end of the country to be honest.
 
Back
Top