I have a 95 accord v6 that runs great, its only got 160 000KM on it, its not down on power and starts reliably ALL the time even in -40 degrees celsius with no problems. (its not that cold everyday but.....i live in canada) this winter the car has started making clicking noises when its cold, its pretty loud until the car gets up to normal operating temp and the noise nearly ceases to exist. I have been searching the threads and think it might be a valve issue? but i am just not sure cause the sound almost goes away when it warms up. Any other suggestions? thanks

 

Valve lash or clearance is a critical adjustment required in most Honda engines. This adjustment is needed to maintain the correct amount of clearance between the moving parts which operate your engine's valves. If you own an a Legend, RL, 1996-1998 3.2 TL, or 1995-1997 Accord V6, your engine automatically compensates for this clearance and adjustment is not needed. All other models require periodic adjustment. Valve clearance can increase or decrease as the engine wears. When valve clearance is excessive (loose) the following problems can occur: Noisy valve train, accelerated wear of valve train components, poor performance or fuel economy.

Valve clearance which is insufficient (tight) can cause at the least poor performance and in a worst case could cause the valve to "burn." An engine valve operates at temperatures in excess of 1600'F; when valve clearance is too tight, the valve may not close completely and cannot be sufficiently cooled. This valve may become damaged from the heat or "burned." Repairing this problem can be costly. Major engine disassembly and machine work will be required. Periodic valve adjustment will ensure ideal performance, increase the longevity of valve train parts, and prevent "burned" valves.


Now, after having said all that; it may still be worth your time to have the valve train inspected. Something may have transpired to cause excesive valve lash.

Fuel injectors can also make noise often attributed to valve noise, as can an exhaust leak at a manifold.

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you say that my accord SHOULD adjust the valves on its own?... how does it manage this out of curiosity? I am taking it in to the shop and dont want to get scammed by a mechanic saying the valves are shot when it could be the injectors etc... thanks

 

It's one of the only Honda engines that I know of that uses hydraulic cam follower pivots (or lifter) Refer #11 in the following illustration:

http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=ACCORD&catcgr y2=1996&catcgry3=4DR+LX+ABS%2FV-6&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=VALVE-ROCKER+ARM+%28FR.%29+%28V6%29

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