noise from the engine compartment!

[01.se.v6.xterra]

I have a 2001 SE V6 with 80,000 that has a ticking noise that has occured ever since I bought the car used at 40,000. The noise is a ticking noise coming from the center of the engine compartment. The ticking seems to become a rattling sound under extreme loads, such as climbing a hill at 4500rpm

The noise occurs at cold-start and while under load such as when towing or driving up a hill. It only occurs while driving in gear. If the noise is occuring and I rev the engine in neutral it does not occur (possibly emliminating a loose heat-shiled as the source).

I have taken it to the Nissan dealership multiple times! They first replaced the manifold, no change. Then they changed the timing belt, no change. I have tried using 92 octane gas for several weeks, no change.

Besides the noise it is a great truck.

Help!!!!!!1

[Schludwiller]

Did they replace both exhaust manifolds? The fuel injectors can also give off a noise that sounds like a broken manifold even though they're operating correctly.

[01.se.v6.xterra]

Thank you for your response. I think they may have only replaced one. The problem has existed and documented prior to my warrany expiration, but what can I expect the charge for a new manifold (beefier 2003?) or feul injectors?

[Schludwiller]

Originally Posted by 01.se.v6.xterra

Thank you for your response. I think they may have only replaced one. The problem has existed and documented prior to my warrany expiration, but what can I expect the charge for a new manifold (beefier 2003?) or feul injectors?

Well if it's documented then you shouldn't have to pay since they didn't fix a broken manifold (if that's the problem). I think it runs around $450, but don't quote me. If you search there is a price somewhere in the forum. Replacement manifolds are all the beefier ones now. The injectors can make a noise (albeit quieter) like a broken manifold, but it doesn't mean they're faulty, just noisy.

[paul89se]

sounds like it could be lifter noise. Also, you could have a loose spark plug. It will sound like a light tapping if a spark plug is loose.

[01.se.v6.xterra]

Just got back from the dealer. It is the other exhaust manifold. I opened a claim with Nissan to try and get it cover. I have documentation, so I hope it goes through. Thank you for your help, I'll let you know how things work out.