Rattling Sound In Engine Bay

[Kiske]

There's a weird rattling sound in my engine bay, as soon as i start up the engine, i've hoisted the car up on jacks and upon closer inspection, still can't find the actual cause, the rattling seems to be coming from the engine itself, any idea guys wad is wrong? its quite irritating even when im driving and as soon as i put the car in neutral, the noise quietens down, but seems like getting worse.. im getting pretty worried.. anyone can help?

[Loren]

Model and year of your car please?

[Kiske]

2008 .. 987 boxster 2.7 manual..

[Loren]

Lot's of possibilities depending on the sound.

Does it vary with RPM?

Polyrib belt pulleys can make sounds just before they fail. So can the water pump.

Perhaps post a recording of the sound?

[h_rivera]

Yesterday I noticed a rattling sound in my engine compartment. Mine is a 2006, 2.7, manual with 43Kmiles. Its a constant noise but more noticeable when idle. From sitting on driver's seat, I can hear it coming from center- towards right of engine bay. I'm suspecting water pump or fan/blower. So far no overheating. I will get in engine compartment this coming weekend to inspect.

[h_rivera]

OK. I got into the engine bay and the rattling sound was the water pump. Car still have 1 1/2 month warranty left .so I contacted the only porsche dealership in Puerto Rico, They picked it up this morning.

[JFP in PA]

Possibly one or more of the chain tensioners bleeding down. Often goes away by switching to a slightly heavier oil, like Castrol Syntec 10W-40. If heavier oil does not help, it will need more significant mechanical help……..

[baxter99]

Hi on the theme of rattles, I ave noticed one on start up it comes from the driver side rear and gets worse when you rev the engine any thoughts as it is under warranty.

Thanks

B

Edited April 24, 2011 by baxter99

[JFP in PA]

1. Take it to the dealer so the problem is at least on record.
2. Ask them to check the cam deviation values at idle; if they are steady, you are in good shape; if they swing back and forth, you/they need to worry.
3. Try running a heavier weight oil; I prefer 10W-40, many like 5W-40.
4. Pull the oil filter and cut it open; if it is clean, you are in good shape; if it holds metal flakes, specs of flat black plastic, or granular metal the can be picked up by a magnet, you/they need to worry.

Edited April 24, 2011 by JFP in PA