Slight Tapping Noise On Idle

[James S]

Noticed the other day my car makes a small tapping noise on idle, certainly doesn't sound like anything to major, possibly thought it could be water pump or something.

Anyone any ideas on this, car has only done about 65k.

Cheers James

[kam05]

What engine oil are you using?

If its 5w30 (fully synthetic) oil then the engine will sound more 'tappety'. Use 10w40 (semi-synthetic) oil if you want the engine to sound less tappety.

I'm lead to believe that Toyota/Lexus engines should be run on fully synthetic oils.

[Steviewevie]

If you lift the bonnet and listen while it's running, can you tell where it's coming from, e.g. the engine itself or as you suggest perhaps the water pump or something else in front ?

[James S]

Good thinking, shall have a listen. :)

[James S]

Had a quick listen, and no sign of it! Typical! Going to go to work shortly, will have a listen see if it comes back when its been running for a while.

Either that or I am going mad and hearing things! LOL

[edeath]

Mine does the same but stops once the engine has warmed up - running synthetic i believe.

[James S]

Right, will report back on it after a run, but good to know i'm not the only one! :D

[James S]

Right, had a god run to work yesterday, and a few places on route, was probably driving for an hour n half.

Sure as day the tapping noise was back, when I pulled up in works car park.

Lifted bonnet to find out where its coming from, and it does seem to be engine block area.

Now there are no other problems, car runs great, is a bit heavy on fuel, but I do have a heavy right foot. Going to check the oil today, other then that anyone got any ideas??

Think i've done about 7-8k since crimbo, am I due a sevice?

James

[Asi]

thats same happens to me. think im using 5w 10 fully syenthtic but im going to use different oil this time.

thanks