Pinpoint Test E: Engine Ticking, Knocking Or Continuous Rattle

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

E1 CHECK FOR NOISE AT THE VALVE COVERS AND THE FRONT COVERS
- Carry out the VEHICLE COLD SOAK PROCEDURE .
- Key in START position.
- Using an EngineEAR, listen closely at the valve covers and the front covers by placing the probe near the surface of the valve cover and then on the surface of the front cover.
- Key in OFF position.
- Is the noise source apparent?
Yes: REMOVE the appropriate cover and INSPECT for loose or worn/broken components. REPAIR as necessary. REFER to ENGINE - 2.3L , ENGINE - 3.0L (4V) or ENGINE - HYBRID 2.3L . TEST the system for normal operation.

No: GO to E2.
E2 CHECK FOR NOISE AT THE CYLINDER BLOCK
- Key in START position.
- Using an EngineEAR, listen closely at the cylinder block by placing a probe on or near each freeze plug.
- Key in OFF position.
- Is the noise source apparent?
Yes: REPAIR or INSTALL new components as necessary. REFER to ENGINE - 2.3L , ENGINE - 3.0L (4V) or ENGINE - HYBRID 2.3L .

No: GO to E3.
E3 CHECK FOR NOISE WHILE DISCONNECTING EACH FUEL INJECTOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR, ONE AT A TIME
- Key in START position.
- Disconnect each fuel injector electrical connector, one at a time, to decrease piston force and listen for the noise.
- Key in OFF position.
- Is the noise reduced or eliminated?
Yes: INSTALL a new fuel injector. REFER to FUEL CHARGING & CONTROLS - 2.3L , FUEL CHARGING & CONTROLS - 3.0L (4V) or FUEL CHARGING & CONTROLS - HYBRID . TEST the system for normal operation.

No: INSPECT the accessory drive or the transmission as possible sources.