Hi, just wondered if anyone could help. I have an STI Version 3 and only when starting from cold and only at tick over it makes a random tapping noise for the first few minutes, it sound like its coming from O/S near the bulkhead??? Would say it was a tappet if it wasn't so random.

ps: just got the car and don’t know to much about Subaru’s
Thanks

TAZ2003

 

Could be the boost solenoid that you can hear. It sits just in front of the drivers side front strut

 

That would be perfect if it was. How can I be sure?

 

I'm not 100% sure of the procedure, a search may show it up, but you can connect the 2 black and 2 green connectors under the dash. This puts the car in a diagnostics mode and the solenoid starts clicking, you can then compare the noise. Someone who is better aquainted with classics might be able to give you a better steer

 

You'll only hear the boost solenoid once the engine is boosting or in diagnostics mode. Otherwise it isn't pulsed afaik (on my99 anyway - prob the same for early cars as you don't need it until you have boost pressure).

It may be piston slap if its just from cold - probably not a major cause for concern as many cars go on to do mega miles with the problem. (unlikely if its random)

Maybe a sticky tappet that takes a while to fill - an oil change might cure this.

It could also be leaky exhaust gaskets and the like, all sorts down that side of the engine!

So basically many things...

 

sounds like piston slap mate!! nothing really to worry about!!

if it goes away when warm then wouldnt think you have a problem

 

Gents

Thanks for all your pointers; I will investigate further to find out what it is exactly.
You have put my mind at ease with it not sounding to serious.

Thanks

 

the boost solenoid does tick on first start up. mine ticks very loud when it is on fast idle, cold start. 93 wrx. mine also has piston slap which is a tapping/knocking noise which goes once the engine is warm. if that helps.

 

its the hydrolic lifters... perfectly normal... once the oil heats up and circulates noise goes.

dont worry about it

 

Inner shim buckets on the STi V3 not Hydraulic buckets alex.
Taz2003 - sounds like piston slap or an exhaust gas leak from up-pipe/turbo area.

Mick