QuestionI will take the car to a different dealer and see what happens. I know for sure that the oil level is ok as I kept on cheking it almost everyday. If I may ask one last question, do you think a thicker oil will help in the feautre if all else is ok. Thanks for your time and for the quick response.
-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Hi Don,
I have a 2004 gti 1.8t. When I start the car after parking her for more than 4 to any amount of time, the engine makes a tapping noise for about a minute or so. I went to the vw dealer where I have my maintenance package and was told that it a normal thing for the 1.8t as it has a hydraulics lifters. But, I took the car to an independent mechanic and was told that the dealer is avoiding from making warranty maintanance..Also was told that my external tensioner is making noise, which VW mechanic again seems to think is normal. By the way, I don't understand why VW dealers think every noise that the car makes is normal. I have followed the recommendation of VW and have changed the oil on time. The dealer has informed me that they use castrol synthetic oil 5w-30. Hoping to do away with the tapping noise, I have taken the car to Jeffy lube and the guys there have suggested using 5w-50. I like the car a lot, but this nois thing is annoying and making me change my mind in regards to keeping the car or not. Please help with any suggesting that you deem is helpful.
Thanks.
Answer -
Elias, thank you for your question. I am not at all surprised by your confusion and concern. Just by the description you are giving me, it is one of several things. One is the hydraulic lifters (they will only start “tapping” if you are low on oil or the oil has lost its viscosity (http://wolfsburgii.e2u.cc/oilw.htm)). Overheating will also cause this. Two: push rods will make this sound also; especially if one has broken through the rocker arm (I had this on an 86 fury, Four times). Having anyone work on the vehicle other than the dealer on such a new vehicle will void the warranty. If you have taken it to only one dealer I suggest taking it to another one. If the second one will not check it out, then you may have to call VW of America to lodge a complaint.
Customer care
1-800-822-8987
8:00 am - 5:00 pm Eastern Time
(in the continental U.S.)
Monday - Friday
From your description, this sound is likely due to low oil pressure at start up. But normally should not last longer than 20 to 30 sec. another problem can be a clogged filter, clogged or failing oil pump, clogged oil galleys, or a push rod that is clogged.
Hope that helps
AnswerElias, thank you for your second question. A thicker or heavier oil is better during the summertime but not for wintertime. Now you will still need to verify that the use of a heavier oil will not void your warranty (after your warranty period is over, use any type you wish for each time of year).
Hope this helps
