Ticking noise coming from motor?

2003 SAAB 9-3 SPORTCOMBI
165,000 MILES • 2.2L • TURBO • MANUAL
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JEEP769
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I just recently developed a hard knock sound in the motor or possibly the timing chain. It only happens when I am on the gas when it is idling it runs and idles fine usually. It did have trouble starting up after shutting it off though a few times. Not really sure what it is I am sending a video of the noise that it's making hopefully you can hear it clearly in the video. I am just curious as to what it might be or what to look for.
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May 11, 2026 at 10:44 PM
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JEEP769
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I should also mention that there is oil in the engine. It does need to be changed but don't believe that is the cause of the ticking sound
May 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:

I listened to the video you sent. The noise sounds like a top-end noise or a timing chain. If I recall, the timing chains were an issue on these.

What I would suggest is this. Remove the valve cover and inspect the chain and all components related to the camshaft. Make sure nothing is loose. If the chain appears loose, you likely have either a failed tensioner or a chain guide.

Below, I have attached the directions for replacing the valve cover gasket.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below
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May 13, 2026 at 2:45 AM
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JEEP769
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Okay that is kind of what I was thinking it was possibly also just by looking at videos online I will do that and I will keep you posted Don't know it'll probably won't be till the weekend till I get a chance to do that and take the valve cover off to check it. Thank you for your advice.
May 13, 2026 at 11:43 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:

No problem whatsoever. Let me know when you can. If there are other questions, feel free to let me know.

Take care,

Joe
May 15, 2026 at 1:28 AM
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JEEP769
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Okay so come to find out I guess I ran the car out of oil. I knew it was leaking but I didn't know it was pouring out like it is. Almost like someone's "saab" otaged it. So I don't know what to think of the new noise it is making now and what I should do with it if it's even worth fixing. I first bought this car for $700 from a friend. I've put $6,000 into it with parts and labor so far and much more needed work done to it including suspension is the main thing. So I don't really know how I'm going to stand still on what I should do with the car but I will send you some videos of the noises it's making and the oil leak on the front right side of the motor would be on the timing cover side or driver side any advice or any help with much be appreciated thanks
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May 26, 2026 at 12:46 AM
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STRAILER
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Yep, that is not good, it looks like the rear main seal popped out and the engine run out of oil now it has a rod knock, sorry about that. Thanks for the videos though.
May 27, 2026 at 2:58 PM
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