All,

The car is great and yes it has all the quirks of a first model year vehicle but it has run great up until now.

Was wondering if any of the 2004 Quest owners out there have experienced the following.

2004 Quest about 44K miles

When started COLD or cool (sitting for several hours) the engine starts with a loud clicking noise that sounds very much like the lifter noise in the engine. The noise is loud and if you apply a little gas it sounds like marbles rolling around in the engine. After about 30 seconds the sound disappears.

There is no engine issue during or after the sound (ie no rough idle or stalling or etc) just that 30 seconds it sounds like the lifters are going to come thru the hood.

Timeline
DEALER Answer: (2 months ago March 2006)
1) Oil is full of sludge and dirty
2) Perform two oil changes, we only authorize one seems like they were fishing

Changed Oil about 600 miles after the service in early April

Changed Oil on 6/2 - about 1800 miles after the last change

DEALER Answer: (Today - June 2006)
1) Noise goes away after 30 seconds (no kidding I told you that)
2) Do not like the Oil filter they put on the car
3) Going to perform Oil Change and replace filter

ANY ADVICE... thanks,
mike

 

All,

If you have any of the symptoms I mentioned above please have your dealer look into the "Timing Chain Guide". The dealership had the car for over a week and they finally diagnosed the issue as the timing chain that was making the noise. Not sure why the timing chain sounded like a valve tapping but the car now runs like it did when we got it.

The dealership (under warranty) replaced Oil Pan Gasket, Oring seals, Tensioner Assy, Sprocket-Cranks, Camshaft Chain, Guide Chain, TEN & SLA & TEN (#2), Exhaust and Catalyst Gaskets.

This would have been a very pricey job had it occurred after warranty.

Keep an ear our for this issue, not sure it will happen to everyone but better safe than sorry.

s/Mike

 

we had a few of these come into the shop make sure your using the right oil. what happens is that it takes some time for oil pressure to build up. Nothing will be harmed. Also have the dealler to check your exhaust gussets (they are right under the oil pan). They are known to crack and make all kinds of sounds during cold start ups and also when driving.

 

Hello NT,
What is the right oil for our Quest? Also if I may ask another question. My SE has everything (Loaded) except the Entertainment center and the NAV, it has the rear control and the pull down doors in the center console, I would like to know how can I install the factory OEM unit in my van. The VIN is 5N1BV28U84N305151 if this would help with your response. Thanks