2005 Avalon Engine Noise - Valves?

[nmrickie]

I have a 2005 limited with 66k miles. It makes a ticking or clicking noise under light acceleration, usually at speeds from 25-40 mph. At idle or during heavier acceleration, the noise stops. However, when the car is in park and the engine is slowly revved from low to high rpm's, there's no noise. Otherwise it runs great and has plenty of power. The noise comes from the area of the intake manifold (which could be carrying the noise from somewhere else).

The dealer says all the valve lifters are bad and quoted me $4300 to fix it. I did try Seafoam cleaner which made no difference at all.

Any ideas?

[Mike Murrell]

Valve lifters are in the cylinder head - upper part of motor.

$4300 for what amounts to a valve job with new lifters sounds a tad steep - but what do I know about today's prices.

I'd try several back-to-back oil changes - adding the following each time. Make sure you are running the appropraite weight oil.

http://www.ryderfleetproducts.com/ry...63A4D59F3DBCB3

[grandpapa]

it's common on the 3.5 engine with ticking noise.

We had an 06 limited, it had the ticking noise on idle but not on drive. Checked out couple times from different dealer, they both said 'normal' but yes a little loud. They asked me to keep an eye on oil usage and leak.

Then now, we have an 05 limited which also has a little ticking noise, not as loud as the 06. I would not waste $4500 to fix the problem. I know it's kind of sad that we have to hear that ticking noise but it doesn't bother us that much.

[Robert1820]

I have road tested several Lexus and Toyotas with the 3.5 V6 for alignment and tire service. They do have a bit more mechanical noise than the older 3.0 and 3.3 V6. Many have some degree of piston slap. I have one customer with an '06 Avalon that we have serviced since new. It has always had a slight piston slap that hasn't changed in almost 70K miles. Most of the 3.5 have some at least some valve train noise also. Seems harmless. Believe me, any real mechanical problem requiring real work will make real, unmistakable noise.

[nmrickie]

Thanks for the input. I'll try a few oil changes with cleaning additives and if it doesn't help I'll try to live with it.

[bigteninch]

I have an 07 that I just picked up with 95k and yes the valve tap/clatter when cold is much more audible than I would like. Was there a TSB or other bulletin about valve noise?

I wonder if they are hydraulic or solid, I would assume hydraulic. Some mfrs do allow for some valve adjustment if needed at higher miles.