Upon starting, my 2002 (160,000) has a rattling sound coming from the passenger-engine side. I just started noticing it and it seems to happen in the morning on its first start up. It doesn't seem to be effecting driving, but not sure if it was something to be concerned about. Anyone else experience this? Insights or suggestions?
One thing that lives on the passenger-engine side is, well, the engine. It uses solid (non-hydraulic) valve lifters that have a little bit of clearance when cold, before everything warms up and expands. So it can sound a bit tappy when started cold. I wouldn't be worried if you think maybe you just started noticing it (on extra cold mornings, maybe?). If you're sure it's really a new sound, or much more noticeable suddenly, that might be something to think about. -Chap
