Loud Tick Over At Idle When Warm, Possible Coolant Loss Is220D

[sinbad182]

Hi all, thought I'd register here as it appears there's some very knowledgable Lexus bods about!

Ive got a 58 plate is220d, 98k on the clock. It had its engine replaced by Lexus under extended warranty last April (due to the well known head gasket fault - Lexus twickenham were excellent tbh) but there appears to be problems with the new one.

After the car is warm and has been driven for a while (15/20min or more) the engine ticks over really loudly at idle. You can notice its clearly louder in and outside the cabin. Think a significant tapping like a tractor ticking over! Also, when I was checking oil and coolant I noticed the coolant was down to just above the minimum level, and was evidence of it sprayed on the front of the engine cover. Still drives like a dream though, no evidence of fan coming on more than usual, engine temp fine etc

Does this ring a bell to anyone? I've booked it into Lexus, as far as I'm concerned If its an engine problem it should be down to them to fix it as the new block had a one year warranty. I'm no expert in cars or how car dealers work though!

[normski2]

Yeah you want to get that checked out sooner rather than later. Dropping coolant level is of concern.

[sinbad182]

It's booked into Lexus, but they can't see it until march 4th. Going to get local garage to have a look for second opinion.

Any idea what it could be? Not a second head gasket, surely?!

[normski2]

I've only heard of that on one occasion.

Here's hoping it stays that way!!