5th Gen 2.4L sounds like a VW TDI *video* - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

dj_hp · 01-07-2012, 10:10 AM

Hey everyone, I want to first introduce myself. I'm Jeff, from Toronto.

I've been lingering around TN for quite a while now, just never created an account.

Anywho, my 2003 Camry (2.4L) is giving out some weird noises. I've searched other videos but everyone else's noises seem to go away after the engine's warmed up.

My issue is, there is a loud ticking (I guess knocking?) sound that seems to be coming from the exhaust manifold. My car sounds like a diesel right now.

Maybe someone can give me input on what it is/what it could be? Camshafts? Lifters?

***EDIT: Oh and btw, it's burning oil. There's just about over the quarter point on the dipstick from my last oil change (4000 kms / 2500 miles).

Here's a link to the video:

You Tube

leakyseals · 01-07-2012, 11:31 AM

Hi, not familiar with a TDI, but I would spray some throttle body cleaner around the intake seal at the head, see if you can stall it. also pull the plastic vvt-i cover off and have a look at the PCV valve and hoses. Your video was right over the top of it. Always be vigilant of the stripped headbolts, check for rapid coolant loss, foamy engine oil, etc.

leakyseals · 01-07-2012, 11:40 AM

also these engines are not known for burning oil. the only time they do is when they don't get conventional oil changes on time (dirty rings). There are some quick fixes you can try if your still down a quart and have room let me know.

leakyseals · 01-07-2012, 12:03 PM

I may have jumped the gun. Don't think there's anything wrong, your camera is amplifying sounds. Just went and listened to mine. Yours is idling smoother than mine, but slightly louder. What your hearing is the intake valves through the plastic intake, the ticking of the PCV valve, and another valve that controls the emergency brake pressure. All are normal. I found aftermarket PCV valves tick louder, larger inlet, don't know why, but hearing it is reassuring. the general ticking lifter noises are not that bad, can be quieted down with use of synthetic oil. quarter off the full line in 2500 miles = 1/2 quart every 5 k, very good actually. Oil does flash off, and I've found these 2.4L seem to burn less slightly below full.