Hope someone out there can help.

Just bought myself an Impreza Sport, 1999 with 64,000 on the clock. I'm delighted with it, but for two things (I've started a thread for each to keep track of things!). I've got a 3 month warranty from the dealer so keen to find out what's worng.

For this thread, my problem is a knocking sound when the car is at idle. The knocking, a steady dull dun dun dun dun dun dun, is bearly noticeable when the engine is cold, but gets quite loud when the engine is warm. The sound can't be heard when the revs rise and go out of synch with the engine revs as the engine settles back to idle. Then it sounds like a diesel taxi (yuch!).

The cam belt was changed by the dealer that sold me the car. Could it be something to do with the timing, valves, oil pump? Or maybe it's a transmission or exhaust thing (though it doen't sound like it). Can anyone help? I'd like to get to the bottom of it before the warranty expires. Thanks!

 

iv got the same noise on mine im afraid to say i think its the bottom end iv already put 2 diffrent engines in mine and the bottomend has gone on both of them an now im gettin the same noise it will probley just get louder until bang

 

Okay, so I'm a total numpty...what is a 'bottom end'?!

 

A possible suspect could be the cambelt tensioner. If the dealer did not renew this when he changed the belt he could have damaged it by not following the re-compressing procedure. This procedure is quite specific.
JohnD

 

Bottom end is normally referred to as the Crankshaft, bearings and con rods.
In Other words the expensive bits

 

Thanks John. What's the easiest way to confirm whether this is the suspect or not? Would it be a case of removing the cambelt cover and having a look? Not sure what I'd be looking for in there however.

 

Of course, the expensive bits! Any idea how I might verify whether it's this, the cambelt tensioner (as suggested by JohnD), or something else?

 

Gavin, We have a very reliable 'friend' garage in Motherwell, who l know will take a look at it for you and give you an unbiased opinion on the problem.

If you wish, speak to Craig Samson on 01698 260600 on Monday, tell him David at APi recommended you talk to him and let him hear the problem.

That way we'll set your mind at rest. There are a number of guys on here have had work done by Craig, Not the poshest garage around but honest and inexpensive.

Good Luck -David - APi Engines / APi Impreza
www.apiengines.com

 

That's a great tip Dave. I've give him a call next week. Thanks!