2001 Mazda 626 loud clicking noise in idle

2001 MAZDA 626

137,000 MILES • V6 • FWD • AUTOMATIC

OLDDODGETRUCK

MEMBER
66 POSTS

My Mazda 626 LX V6 makes a loud clicking noise when idling. It only does it when I start the engine. In park the clicking follows the speed of the engine, but if I drive it about 10 feet it stops clicking. It won't start clicking again, until I turn off the engine and turn it back on. It makes no noises when driving down the road. The check engine light does not come on either. It sounds like its coming from under the rear valve cover or under the exhaust manifold. The car still drives fine.

Nov 24, 2014 at 6:57 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,194 POSTS

Based on your description, I would guess you have an exhaust manifold leak. If you only hear it when the engine has cooled, my guess is that is when it leaks. As the engine warms, the metal expands and the leak goes away.

Other than that, it could be a lifter or low oil pressure. Is the engine oil clean and full?

Nov 25, 2014 at 5:16 AM

OLDDODGETRUCK

MEMBER
66 POSTS

The oil was on the low side, the front valve cover was leaking, but I filled it back up and it didn't help.

Nov 25, 2014 at 5:48 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,194 POSTS

Since I am not there to actually hear it, it makes things difficult. Usually, a trained ear can tell right away where the noise is coming from. Is there a tech that you could go to and just let hear it?

Nov 25, 2014 at 8:39 AM

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