I've just been for a spin in my scoob, and when I was getting near home I thought there was a funny smell coming from somewhere (not me) so I stopped and lifted the bonnet only to hear a little ticking sound coming from both ends of the engine. The car has only done 800mls could this be due simply to the fact that the oil hasn't yet been changed or should I be worried??????
Any thought's greatfully received
Ron

 

I got a 5door recently and managed 1250mls in it. I am new to these great cars. Mine smelt funny when new also and made some strange ticking noises.

BUT remember to let it cool down gently! I guess you know this already so no offence intended. This is what I do (once I was past 1000 miles):
Let it warm up gently before giving it full throttle. It does seem to take a long time to heat up properly EVEN after the temp gauge indicates that it is up to normal temp. Warm it further after that I reckon.

When getting towards your destination drive the last few miles (eg 4 after hard driving and say 1 or 2 with brisk stuff) gently to let it cool at low revs with air getting in there. I guess you dont need a turbo timer if you remember to do this.

This is my 1st post so don't shoot me if I am talking bolloxxx

Swa

 

Ron,

My car has always made a slight tappety ticking noise from new. I think it is characteristic of the car, so don't worry too much. My dealer recently changed from Shell Helix semi-synthetic to Castrol Magnatec 5w-40, and for some reason it seems to have helped with the valvegear noise.

There is also a solenoid valve mounted on the driver's side inner wing which switches

I don't think it will ever sound like a lexus at idle though...

Cheers,

Alex

 

Is the ticking at regular intervals?

There's a lot of hot stuff around the engine and it's usually just the sound of some of the parts contracting as the car cools down. You normally hear the sound from the exhaust system and also the brake discs as they cool down.

Whats the funny smell like ? I've noticed that the brake pads and tyres smell a bit after some heavy driving.

The engine oil is a bit on the thin side, that's why you shouldn't drive like a lunatic until you've had your 1000ml service.

Was it just a "spin" or had you been a naughty boy

I'm no mechanic, although you've probably guessed that by now, but unless the temp gauge is through the roof or there's smoke streaming out of the engine bay I don't think it anything to worry about.

Stefan

 

swa,

Welcome aboard BTW. Most of us talk boll**ks anyway, so your in good company

So what's the significance of SWA ?

Stefan

 

Stefan

Just a nick name but you won't find out any more .... sorry

Swa

 

Thanks guys
The ticking was with the engine still running, and I am now sure that it is some sort of valve gear tap due to thin oil.
Its having it's oil changed on friday morning so I hope that it will be less with the real stuff in it.
Ron