3022719 - S01 ENGINE KNOCK

The engine makes a cyclical noise, the intensity of which varies with the load and is noticeable during brisk acceleration and when long gear ratios are used
Results of the tests
1CHECKING WITH DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENTAll OKProblems metOperation

Connect the diagnostic equipment to the diagnostic socket and check:

  • that there are no faults in the engine management control unit
Continue to Step 2An error is detected in the control unitContinue following the instructions for the diagnostic equipment
2CHECKING AUXILIARY COMPONENTS CHECKAll OKProblems metOperation
Disconnect the service belt and check whether the noise disappears.
Do not let the engine run for long with the belt disconnected
Continue to Step 3The noise disappears See table   S10  ENGINE WHILSTLING / SERVICES BELT NOISY'
3CHECKING SITE OF KNOCKINGAll OKProblems metOperation
Carry out a test to locate the precise area from which the knocking is coming, using suitable equipmentContinue to Step 4The knocking is coming from the cylinder headContinue to Step 5
The knocking is coming from the cylinder block/crankcaseContinue to Step 4
4CHECKING CRANKCASE KNOCKAll OKProblems metOperation
Carry out a test to identify the conditions in which the knocking from the crankcase occurs.Continue to Step 5The knocking occurs with the engine cold, decreases with the engine hot and can be heard when releasing the accelerator.Overhaul the engine, in particular check the condition of the pistons and replace them if necessary. Op.   1028H10 
The knocking occurs with the engine cold and increases during full acceleration with a long ratio.Overhaul the engine: in particular, check the condition of the main bearings and replace them if necessary. Op.   1024A10 
The knocking is of a low intensity when cold but increases with the engine warmOverhaul the engine: in particular, check the condition of the gudgeon pins and replace them. Op.   1028H60 
The knocking can be heard at all temperaturesOverhaul the engine: in particular, check the condition of the big end bearings and replace them if necessary Op.   1024A10 
The knocking can be heard at all temperatures and decreases when the clutch pedal is pushed.Overhaul the engine and check the crankshaft end float.
5CHECKING TAPPET KNOCKAll OKProblems metOperation
If the car is not used frequently, an accentuated knocking sound may be heard from the tappets for a few minutes upon start up before gradually disappearing (see specific S.N.)Continue to Step 6Tappet knock persistsContinue to Step 6
6CHECKING CYLINDER HEADAll OKProblems metOperation

Overhaul the cylinder head and, in particular, check

  • the operation of the hydraulic tappets
  • that the cams are not worn
  • variable valve timing system
  • camshaft clearane
  • valves and springs
Continue to Step 7Cam worn or incorrect camshaft clearancesRestore or replace the components involved
Tappets noisyCheck hydraulic tappet operation (as per standard procedure) and replace any that are not working
7CHECKING CORRECT OPERATIONAll OKProblems metOperation
Check that the fault is no longer presentFault persistsSearch for the fault starting from another symptom'