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Loud ticking noise

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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 02:21 PM
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Default Loud ticking noise

Hey everyone. I have a 2016 Z51 manual with about 20k miles on it. I'm noticing a new "ticking" noise coming from the engine bay (I think) right after starting the car. Attached is a recording from the driver's seat with the doors open.

Few things to note:

1. It's loudest right after starting the car, even if I've already driven a bunch that day. A few minutes into each drive, it's either much quieter or completely gone.
2. It's very intermittent. Maybe only 1 out of 5 starts.
3. It seems to be in sync with the revs; i.e. the frequency of ticks increases with revs.

Any thoughts are much appreciated!
Attached Files
File Type: mp3
C7 ticking.mp3 (166.6 KB, 63 views)
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 04:00 PM
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Belt tensioner.
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 04:50 PM
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Thanks for your response. Do you mean something's wrong with the belt tensioner? Or that's how it's supposed to sound? Sorry I'm clueless.
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 07:14 PM
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is it the arhythmic "tak" sound I'm hearing in that mp3?
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 07:44 PM
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Good news, that ain't no lifter.
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 10:21 PM
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Originally Posted by squirrelchew
is it the arhythmic "tak" sound I'm hearing in that mp3?
Yep!
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Old Dec 1, 2022 | 10:56 PM
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It must be the electric car next to you, lol!
Seriously I would check your oil level.
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Old Dec 2, 2022 | 12:31 AM
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Exhaust leak ?
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Old Dec 2, 2022 | 09:33 AM
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Like the second video posted by the Beatles says "Listen"

Belt tensioner.
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Old Dec 2, 2022 | 09:42 AM
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I would agree with the others. That does not sound like a lifter or an exhaust manifold leak. Sounds like the belt tensioner or a failing belt itself. Good news is both are pretty easy to replace.
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Old Dec 2, 2022 | 11:34 AM
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You may want to review this post. Go down to entry number 10 by Pineapple,

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...5&goto=newpost

Last edited by H Watkins; Dec 3, 2022 at 10:33 AM. Reason: spelling
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Old Dec 2, 2022 | 03:30 PM
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Really appreciate all your replies. I'm useless so I'll bring it to my mechanic and share these opinions! Will post results.
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