1997 Chevy Malibu Knocking

HAM3R

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET MALIBU
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
135,000 MILES

My malibu, when I accelerate or rev the engine, makes a loud knocking noise, started yesterday 2/1/10 as a soft, quiet knocking. Today 2/2/10 it is louder. One of my coworker says its probally engine build up and my valve is knocking against my pistons. I want to make sure they are right. Thanks

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010 AT 11:40 PM

1 Reply

ERNEST CLARK

MECHANIC
1,730 POSTS

Your co-worker is probably wrong. If your valve comes into contact with your piston, your engine will self destruct almost immediately and you'll hear a lot more than just a "Knocking".

If your check engine light is coming on, then start by having your computer scanned.

Your knock could be ignition timing/fuel related. It could also be mechanical, such as your oil level is low and starving your valve train/lifters of lubricant or your pistons are excessively worn and slapping against the cylinders.

There are several possible causes of a knocking sound, but they can only be properly diagnosed by a mechanic with the proper tools.

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Saturday, February 6th, 2010 AT 8:23 AM