question about noise from engine!!

[yankees8223]

Hello. I recently purchased a 1998 Dodge Neon (highline/sport edition) from a small dealership. I just picked it up this afternoon, actually. When I first test drove this car the engine was a bit loud but I expected it to be after my research of this car. I knew that they normally are pretty loud, which was no problem; nothing out of the ordinary. Anyways, today, I picked up my car, went straight to my college class and on the way home I noticed a sound coming from the engine. At first it sounded like a quiet knocking sound but when I pulled over and lifted up the hood to get a better listen it sounded more like a small ticking sound coming from the engine. Now I don't know a lot about cars. Coincidentally, when I picked up the car the dealer said he had just replaced the fuel pump on the car so the car would be in top-notch shape. I didn't notice this sound when I first test-drove it last week. This wouldn't have anything to do with the fuel-pump, would it? Now, I bought the car "As Is" so it's not under any warranty. I also got a pretty good price which is why I'm not trying to be too worried. Should I be concerned? Could it be a bad fuel pump? Could it have been installed incorrectly? What else could it be? If anybody could give me some suggestions, I'd really appreciate it. Thank you.

[xtoyotacorex]

Fuel pumps don't tick. And because your car runs, I assume, your fuel pump is working how it should be. Does the sound increase when you accelerate? Is the sound in repetition? Do you have any preformance issues with the car? It could be that your valves arn't adjusted right. Try to locate the sound, check for look parts or anything like that.

[skatendestroy]

your valves are sticking

[NeonStyl]

It could very well be some of your valves sticking and making that ticking noise. However, it is also very common on these cars for the evap canister to make a constant ticking noise while the car is on. If this is the case, then it is completely normal and nothing to worry about.

To check this tho, turn the car on and allow it to warm up. Once at normal operating temperature or just the next time you begin to hear this ticking noise... leave the car running, pop the hood and put your ear up to the evap canister to see if this is the source of your ticking noise. Be careful tho as the accessory belts are also right in this general area and will be moving quite fast while the car is on. It would ruin your day to get a hand or piece of clothing caught in the belts there .

The evap canister is located on the passenger-side motor mount inside the engine bay. I've also included some pics for ya to show you its location.





L8R,

[yankees8223]

Everyone, especially Neonstyl, thank you very much for your advice. I appreciate it. I'm going to check it out again tonight. Thanks again.