I have a 2001 Honda Accord LX Sedan. Just recently it started making a noise (like when your making popcorn) from the right side of the motor around the timing belt area. You can hear it when its at a stop. It only makes that noise when im on my way from work when the car is wamred up/hot. Before it started making this noise i got a brand new EGR Valve, Gas Cap, and Catalytic Converter & did a tune up.

 

It almost sounds like something getting bopped around. Use a long screwdriver or hose as a stethescope to isolate the noise. If you can zero in on it, it becomes a bit easier to guess what's wrong.

If you use a screw driver, put the metal side of the screwdriver on what you want to listen to, and put the handle end against your ear. Using a hose, just hold one end to your ear and the other end near what you want to listen to.

Mike

 

Exhaust leak maybe, check #3, [exhaust manifold gasket] and #11, [8mm locking nuts]... http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/...HAUST+MANIFOLD 94

 

I have a 2001 Honda Accord with 200,000 miles. About 2 weeks ago, it also began making the rattle you describe. It still drives fine. No leaks. No recent service work. Nothing dragging. Did you get a diagnosis?

 

could be auto tensioner failing? i had that problem before couldn't ever figure out what it was. the auto tensioner wasn't making the timing belt tight enough and causing it to rattle on the timing cover because it was loose. maybe pull off timing belt cover and check it out or feel the side of it while the engine is running

 

I would be careful with the screw driver trick in the belt area. Make sure you are watching carefully when you drop that bad boy around in the drive belt