Lifter Tick Noise in 2003 Saturn Ion
 

I have a 2003 Saturn Ion. It is making a ticking noise at the top of of the engine block. A mechanic diagnosed it as rod knock. However, a friend of mine who works on cars thinks it is lifter tick. Was just curious if there is a way to know who is correct? I was thinking that if I did an oil change, if there were metal shavings in the oil then it would be rod knock. If there were no metal shavings then lifter tick.

Also, would like to know how much would it cost to fix if it is lifter tick.

Thanks,

The early ecotech engines have a reputation for timing chain noise if the tensioner goes bad. A loose timing chain will make a ticking sound or rattle as it comes under the chain guide between the cam gears. Use a mechanic's stethoscope, or a long screwdriver against your ear, and check the top of the valve cover at the drive belt side of the engine. Based on recommendations from owners of this engine, one of the first things I did when I got my 2004 Ion three years ago was to pull the valve cover and check the timing chain. It was still tight, and I installed a new, upgraded timing chain tensioner.

I've not heard that the lash adjusters (they don't actually lift anything, they sit at the opposite end of the cam followers from the valves) are a problem on this engine. But if one collapses, it could cause ticking, or even allow the cam follower to come out of position. You could check this when you have the valve cover off.

Didn't this question come through like 3 months ago?