Technical 1.4 8V tappet noise from cold

[dereham]

Hi, does anyone else's 1.4 8V Evo have a tapping noise from the engine when driving off from cold ? Mines done just 1,050 careful miles, the tap is not noticeable at tickover but comes on when accelerating and increases with engine speed disappearing after about 2-3 miles. I am wondering whether this will go away as the miles build or should I take it to my dealer (I am guessing they will probably just say not to worry!) Apart from this I am really pleased with this little car, far more refined and modern than the 1.6 Focus it replaced.

 

[tyrebagga]

If its any help mine has been quite tappety since I got it (500 miles + on clock atm) and I would expect this with mechanical tappets, especially from cold. If it is knocking loudly then that is a different matter, as something could have given in the engine.

 

[dereham]

Thanks, it's not knocking loudly, just a soft tapping noise from the top end until the engine is thoroughly warmed up then it's fine. Judging by the frequency it sounds like just one tappet is a tad noisy for some reason. If it gets any worse I'll take it in to Fiat, I guess no car is ever going to be perfect!
Cheers

 

[tom555tom]

its fine and normal

 

[Willsevo]

check your oil bud.

Engines will be a little tappety from cold until the oil gets up to temperature. However, an overly noisy engine indicates that it might be low on oil.
Keep it topped up

 

[dereham]

Thanks,
Oil level is fine, I notice in the service book that tappet clearance adjustment is part of routine maintenance at 36K miles. Didn't think they still made engines that needed that, brings back memories of many a happy hour under the bonnet with my feeler gauges! Anyway, not so worried now I know they can be adjusted.
Cheers

 

[dereham]

Re: 1.4 8V tappet noise from cold *UPDATE*

Hi all, just coming up to 2K miles now and tappet noise almost completely gone and car definitely getting quicker as engine loosens. Happy to report no other faults at all so far, very pleased with this car. Bought it because my wife's Panda has not had a single fault since new 5 years ago (except for one recall).