Got a 97 Grand Prix with the 3.1L V6. Has 123,000 miles. It is making a ticking sound when I first start it up and then goes away in 30 seconds or so. Never makes the noise in park at an idle or on the road, just when first starting up in the mornings. Got any ideas? Thanks ahead of time.
'97 Pontiac Grand Prix ticking?
Apr 11, 2005
4 Replies
Do a google on 3.1 piston slap...
Most likely suspect is 'piston slap' for which some of these GM engines are notorious. If it's not severe & goes away in 30 seconds, nothing to worry about.
Regards, Al.
Or maybe a valve lifter that is draining down when parked???
Yes, its another GM design problem. GM says its harmless, but it has something to do with bad tolerances in the design. Mine does it too, its embarrising when you start it up in the morning if parked next to someone in a Toyota or something, You they are saying to themselves "sounds like a piece of s*it".
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