Vehicle Questions and Answers
Welcome to the Vehicle Q&A Hub. Find answers to your automotive questions, share your experiences, and get expert advice on vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting, and more!
5246 views
3 answers
As engines get older and experience wear and tear, one of the initial signs you may notice is lifter noise emanating from the engine. This is especially common in vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe (and others with large engines) and is typically due to under-lubricated lifters hitting against other internal engine components. In larger engines, it can take some time for the oil to fully circulate, leading to increased wear on the lifters over time. To help reduce the impact of this issue, using high-mileage oil in older vehicles is recommended since it is specifically formulated for this purpose. While it may not completely eliminate the noise, it can help lessen it, potentially confining it to when the engine is started.
I figured out this issue on my own last year after chasing annoying noise for 4 years. The problem is with the rubber seal on the oil pump, which deteriorates and causes the pump to suck in air (similar to a broken straw and milkshake). To confirm the diagnosis, try adding thick oil. If the noise gets louder, it's likely due to the seal on your pickup. It's a simple fix that only requires a $5 part and a couple of hours of work. It's not the lifters or the rockers causing the problem, it's just a cheap $5 fix.
One reason for startup noises in a Chevy Tahoe can be traced back to the valve lifter. The ticking sound occurs when the valve lifters, which are lubricated with oil while the engine runs, are the source of the noise.