How To Find Engine Noises -EricTheCarGuy

So this 1997 Nissan Altima came in with a really bad engine noise. At first I thought it was the alternator but it turned out to be something else. You'll have to watch the video to find out what. The purpose of this video is to show a logical method of finding an engine noise like this. If it's a rotational noise like this was, I like to start by removing the drive belts one at a time. If you remove all the drive belts and you still hear the noise, it's something inside the engine. Could be the timing belt or chain. Either way, you're going to have to dig deeper if removing the belts doesn't reveal the source of the noise. Below is a link to a video I did on finding noises that may also help you. Along with an article I wrote about the same topic. So if you have an engine noise you can use that information to help you find the source.

Useful links.

Tools.

Stay Dirty

ETCG

Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result.  Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

[RockandrollNegro]

It's pretty easy to diagnose the source of the sound with an assistant and a stethoscope.

1. Have your assistant put the stethoscope on, making sure the earphones are placed snugly in the ear canal.

2. Place the other end of the stethoscope near your mouth.

3. Scream as loudly as possible into the stethoscope.

4. Slap your assistant around and tell him to 'quit screwing around, we have a job to do here.'

I learned this method from my father, a retired mechanic who watched the Three Stooges his whole life.

[JonathanThompson]

I learn so much from you, thank you. All of the little stuff, the stuff you cannot find online when you Google search a car issue. I wanted to get better at working on cars but I never had guidance, training, busy with college and career for 10 years. Now, a few times a week, I watch your videos, and I am learning so much. In the past year I have become better tenfold because of you. Ultimately, you are increasing my confidence. I tackled many more repairs this year because I felt like I could do it. Thank you kind sir.

[JSWMobileMedia]

Thanks Eric. I jumped the gun, immediately assuming it was the alternator. Your extra effort to find the true cause of the noise was very helpful and reminded me to do my due diligence before throwing parts at a problem.

[CameronMcCreary]

I enjoyed the two (2) videos on bearing problems. The problems were diagnosed correctly and so, I will subscribe; thanks Eric.

[EyMcFly]

Damn he's good! This was the exact same noise my 2002 Civic EX was making, turned out to be an 18 year old A/C compressor.

Concise instructions, visually easy to learn, and very well spoken. Thanks Eric, you're a legend!

I have the exact same noise in my Volvo S80 from 2000. I have suspected the alternator myself but after this video I understand that it can be anything else nearby. Thanks Eric you’re best. Greetings from Sweden.

[joelpowermex]

I wish I could take my old 2001 jeep grand cherokee for a tune up to you, You seem like a honest mechanic!

[crob]

Thanks for putting driveway diagnostics videos up. It seems that with your video the only way crooked mechanics can rip people off is by NOT telling the customer whats really wrong with their car.

[willycamaroz]

Erick you done a great job.... I usually do my own repairs. But everytime I get confused about something I run to your videos and they always help!!! Keep it up brother and god bless

[PRjserrano]

I'm very glad to have found this video cause my 1998 Altima was making the exact same engine noise. I feared it would turn out to be camshaft or timing chain related. I removed the AC tensioner pulley and the bearings were nearly completely frozen up. The engine is now is very quiet and even feels like it has better response. Who knows, perhaps my fuel efficiency will increase as well. Again, thank you for taking the time to post such great videos!

[MichelLinschoten]

You know what is funny, when i heard that noise when he started the vehicle. You will find this sound DAILY on the Wal-Mart parking lots!!! NO KIDDING!

[lupeatx]

Wish I could take my car to you sometimes. I have to admit I've repaired some stuff with help of your videos. So thanks!! I have a '98 Altima and still kicking with over 210k miles on it. 

[rotorwing]

I don't even have any repairs to do. I just like the skills man. good work.

[OfficialSNIxn]

Instead of hammering the new bearing in you can use a piece of wood or even the old bearing and just press it in using the vice! this way you wont damage anything:)

[Koshunae]

I was brought a 1999 olds intrigue that was run low on oil, not completely out but low enough to set the light. It had a clatter sound like lifters had been eaten up, but the sound wasn't coming from the area of the engine that you would expect. Long story short, I traced it to the water pump that had a very, very small amount of play in the shaft, just enough that you could feel it. MAYBE 1/32 of an inch total, but the play was enough that it made a clatter sound as it spun with the belt. Once I replaced the pump, there was no more noise.

[Jestr]

My Father's 19997 Malibu Sounds the same, but does stop at times.
Excellent Video Eric !

[johnkaplanian]

Dear Eric, love your videos always. I know that you probably informed the client that by summer time, it would be good idea to change the AC compressor bearing as I heard a slight hissing noise from it when the car started and as you spin it by hand. This way we can enjoy having a nice video on that subject, in addition to vacuuming the system to -150 PSI to check for leaks and of course giving the compressor a dose of special oil before the refrigerant to keep it smoothly operating . Hope you do that video. Have a nice time.

[Nordschleifer]

Im glad there are good guys like you how take te time and effort to post a great video for non proffesionals en diy's. Keep up the good work Eric. There should be more people like you.. !

[JohnThorpIreland]

Hi Eric.
Brilliant, Thank you,
You show a great illustration of what to do and you are not talking for 30 minutes before actually showing what to do, best video for car repair I have seen on You tube. (or anywhere actually) please keep it up, well done, Ohh and you actually know what your doing...Regards John.

[jodopeg]

To determine which engine accessory is making a noise I just use a 3/4 inch rubber hose about 2 feet long, , put one end in my ear and f move the other end from one place to another like a stethoscope, , , the noise will be loudest on the unit with the problem