1999 Ford Windstar clicking noise when accelerating

EMMONS5

MEMBER
1999 FORD WINDSTAR
3.8L
V6
FWD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

I have a clicking noise coming from the front end when I step on the gas pedal and the engine needs the torque. It doesn't always do it and just started about two weeks ago. It doesn't lose power and does shimmy a bit with the clicking. About a month ago I had the speed sensor go bad and it was replaced. I also just this week replaced the fuel filter due to a shutter the van was getting. I was told the gas in the tank was very dark and I need to add fuel additive everytime I fill up for a while and probably go through a filter or two to get it cleaned up. We can't figure out where this noise is coming from, it does not make this noise going down hill and accelerating, only when it needs that extra power in particular uphill. Also, I have no check engine lights come on so I'm guessing it's not something that is connected to the computer.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

An exhaust leak can make a clicking sound when the engine is under load.

There is a tool you might be able to borrow or rent from an auto parts store that borrows them called the "Chassis Ear". It is a set of six microphones, a switch box, and headphones. You clip the microphones to suspect points, then drive around while listening with the headphones. You can move the microphones around to zero in on the source of the noise. Be aware that many mechanics have never seen or even heard of this tool. Suspension and alignment mechanics use it to find rattles, squeaks, and other noises.