Ticking on start up

Hello RPJ,

This is Tom, the tick symptom you're describing sounds like the valve train isn't getting oil on it until the oil pressure is built back up. The incline probably is allowing oil to drain off of it that when its on level ground it isn't all the way draining down. Over all its a symptom of poor oil circulation, low oil level, a sticky valve or the wrong weight oil for the motor. Did this start with the season change are you in a hot place? How steep is the incline? You may be due for the scheduled oil change. I would start there, Double checking the fluid level making sure you are on level ground when doing it is a good idea. It is the most common cause for a tick that goes away soon after start. Your not getting any dash lights on?
Let me know,
Tom

Hello, thanks for the reply. During the first start up the oil light is the last to go off, it stays on for just half a second or so. It has been very hot and humid here lately (heat wave going on, Baltimore area). I am due for an oil change in less than 100 miles. And again when starting the vehicle on level ground this does not happen. I did not notice this in the winter. Thanks for your reply, Roosevelt.

Also, 5W30 Synthetic oil is used for this car, should a heavier weight be used since it has 136,000 miles on it? Thanks.

Hi RPJ,

Yes, get the oil change per your schedule, 100 miles early is fine. Stay away from 5w anything until winter, in the hot whether the thinner the oil is the more it will drain off the valve train when its off and cooling down. In my opinion 5w-30 in super hot areas is too thin and what you're seeing is exactly what would happen in the beginning, then in time internal damage will start occurring from that initial 10 seconds of running before the oil pressure builds and fills the upper engine again. Your engine might like a 10w-40 in the hot seasons then when it becomes cold for winter if you feel the starter is working too hard in the cold switch back to the 5w30 oil.
Keep us posted.
Tom

I'll do that. Thanks for your help!

Sure, thing my friend. Keep us posted we always like to know how things work out.
Tom

Hello 4DRTOM, just to let you know, oil has been changed on the Aveo and all is doing fine. Thanks again for your help! Roosevelt.

Hi Roosevelt,

Great I'm glad to hear, it's our pleasure to help out. Keeping people on the road safe and sound is our goal. Anytime you need any assistance come on back, that's what we are here for.
Enjoy your evening,
Tom
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