The 4 cylinder engine in my 02 Camry (67K miles) has been getting louder and louder. When the engine is under load, right after starting it cold, it sounds like diesel - like metal banging against metal. Its almost as if something in the engine is not getting enough oil. Once it warms up, it quiets down a bit, but it is still a LOT louder than when it was new 2 years ago. The noise level is very weather dependent. On very cold mornings, its so bad that I'm almost afraid to accelerate for fear of something breaking.
Took it to the dealer yesterday. They're telling me that there is nothing wrong with it, and that this engine is known for being noisy when cold. ???? The engine was first used in 2002 models. How can it be "known" for being noisy?
I'm thinking of a few possible options: take it to another dealer? Use one of those oil flushing additives next time I change the oil? Switch oil types?
Suggestions?