Hello all,

After cold starting my R, i hear an RPM-dependent tapping noise. It is always there, even when fully warmed up. Usually only at idle you can hear it once its warmed up. When driving, you can't tell. My car has 12,000 miles on it and I always used Amsoil 5w-30 synthetic oil and change it every 5,000 or once a year.

Could it be a bearing, or perhaps a valve or lifter gone bad? I don't think its in the accessory system, its inside the motor for sure. I will post a video of it. Since im still under factory warranty, should i bring it to the dealer? I wasn't sure if they would even bother with a noise like that until something major goes wrong inside the engine..?

 

bring it to the dealer, might be a valve.....you have to watch the oil levels on the STR they use a qt of oil every 3-5k miles it seems

 

There are no valve lifters on an OHC engine, however the valve followers can crack and emit a tapping noise. As Riski suggests, a valve train problem may exist. There is a little allowance for tapping noises due to the injector solenoids opening and closing. Though you deeply feel it may be an engine issue, ya could remove the belts and start her up for a short time to see if the noise disappears...a failed A/C compressor, power steering, or worn water pump can emit clunking/knocking sounds. Again, as Riski suggests, ya got a warranty and this may be the time to use it...Don't go to the dealer with low oil. Keep us posted.