Metallic Rattle on Cold Start

2012 HONDA CIVIC
67,000 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MIDWEST-DAVE
  • MEMBER
  • 22 POSTS
When starting the car after it's been sitting overnight (especially when the air temps are below 40 degree) I notice a metallic knocking when I shift in to drive or reverse from park. The noise goes away when I shift back to Park or when the engine warms up / is running (after 3-5 mins of driving). The one constant I've noticed is that the noise is most noticeable between 800-1200 RPM.

Initially I thought this may be a loose heat shield, but after my local Honda dealer took a look, they said all heat shields are properly secured and they'd like me to leave it at the dealer overnight so they can replicate the sound in the morning.

Apparently they think it may be the timing chain tensioner, but they can't be sure. I've read online it may be the VTC actuator. Would either one of these be the likely culprit, or should they be looking elsewhere?
Mar 28, 2016 at 6:04 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
HMAC300
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 48,601 POSTS
either could be the problem but without them actually hearing it , it's hard to say due to only happening when first started. it may be the tensioner losing oil pressure then getting enough for the day and being ok after that . I had a jag that did the same thing and it was tensioner so best bet here is to leave so it can be heard for a better diagnosis
Mar 28, 2016 at 7:09 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
MIDWEST-DAVE
  • MEMBER
  • 22 POSTS
Great, for something like a tensioner, is that going to involve them removing the timing belt (aka costing a ton of money) or are they able to replace fairly easily? It looks pretty cramped in there, but I'm no expert.
Mar 28, 2016 at 7:11 AM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 48,601 POSTS
your cam is driven by a chain and not a belt so it may be just a tensioner replacement IF THAT IS THE PROBLEM. it may be something else so until its diagnosed don't be to concerned about it. IF they find the problem they will give you an estimate on the cost anyhow and you can go around to different places and see if they can do it cheaper anyhow.
Mar 28, 2016 at 8:21 AM