Car Engine Lifter Noise: Causes and Solutions

An engine lifter is a mechanical device that opens and closes the valves in an internal combustion engine. When an engine lifter is working properly, it should be quiet. However, if an engine lifter is damaged or worn out, it can make a variety of noises, including clicking, ticking, or tapping.

Causes of Engine Lifter Noise

There are several different causes of engine lifter noise. Some of the most common causes include:

Low oil pressure. If the oil pressure in your engine is too low, it can cause the engine lifters to become starved for oil. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the lifters, which can eventually result in noise.
Worn out lifters. As engine lifters wear out, they can develop play in the valve train. This play can cause the lifters to make noise when they open and close the valves.
Damaged lifters. If an engine lifter is damaged, it can cause a variety of noises, including clicking, ticking, or tapping. Damage to lifters can be caused by a number of factors, including excessive wear and tear, overheating, or a lack of lubrication.
Improper valve adjustment. If the valves in your engine are not adjusted properly, it can cause the engine lifters to make noise. This is because the lifters will not be able to open and close the valves properly, which can lead to increased wear and tear on the lifters.

Solutions for Engine Lifter Noise

If you are experiencing engine lifter noise, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. Some of the most common solutions for engine lifter noise include:

Check the oil pressure. If the oil pressure in your engine is low, you should add oil to the engine and check for leaks. If the oil pressure is still low, you may need to have your oil pump inspected.
Replace the lifters. If the lifters in your engine are worn out or damaged, you may need to replace them. This is a relatively expensive repair, but it is the only way to permanently fix the problem.
Adjust the valves. If the valves in your engine are not adjusted properly, you can try adjusting them yourself. This is a relatively simple repair, but it is important to make sure that you do it correctly. If you are not comfortable adjusting the valves yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it done.

Preventing Engine Lifter Noise

The best way to prevent engine lifter noise is to maintain your engine properly. This includes changing the oil and filter regularly, checking the oil pressure, and adjusting the valves as needed. By following these simple steps, you can help to keep your engine running smoothly and quietly for years to come.