Clattering noise coming from front passenger side of engine

[gagemcc]

My 03 M45 is making this clattering noise, it's not loud like a rod or anything deep within the engine.. I have no idea where it is but it is coming from the alternator/cam position sensor region. She only has 84k miles and she is running smooth as can be minus this noise. No sputtering, no misfires, no nothing. The noise doesn't come up until the engine is warm and the noise appears to speed up much faster while the car is in drive but is still there while in park just not as prominent. Any ideas as to what is causing it? I'd attach a youtube video for ya'll to hear the noise but apparently cannot. Thanks.

EDIT: Here's the video:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUuSva4OFU0[/youtube]

[EdBwoy]

Is your oil at the right level?

And I don't know if the 10-post threshold affects URLs as well, but you could just post the share link as text, we'll find it... or a mod will correct it.

[Ilya]

Sorry bout the YouTube link. Unfortunately to combat spam you need to have a certain number of posts before you can do certain things.

And yes, you can share the link as text and I'll update your post. Or better yet, share it within code tags (code) and (/code) but replace the () with [].

[gagemcc]

That's why I thought the URLS were disabled but thanks for the replies, here's the video. I'll check the oil level when I get the chance.

Code: Select all

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUuSva4OFU0

[Ilya]

I updated your original post with your video.

[EdBwoy]

Hmm, after watching the video I don't think it's engine oil related anymore. For giggles, look up "maxima chain rattle".

1. Sounds like a pump cavitating. Check your power steering fluid level. Might as well check the fan fluid level as well although that's on the left side of the car.
Does the noise get any worse when you turn your steering wheel in park?

2. It could also be bad bearings. Can you give it a little more throttle while recording so we can hear what it sounds like at higher speed?
Then if you're up for a little troubleshooting, get a stethoscope (long solid object will work). Place it on the non-rotating part of any accessory that the belt touches. If it is indeed a bearing you'll hear the popping noises in your ear when the other end of your stethoscope is on the alternator housing for example.
If you've got a surgeon's hand, try to actually place the stethoscope on the bolt in the middle of the tensioner & idler pulleys. The water pump, alternator & PS pump middle bolts/nuts aren't stationary bolts, so you'll have to put those on the part casings/housings.

[Poirot]

I also have a similar 'rattle' on my 2k7, closer to the bulkhead. Loudest at startup/warmup, but never fully goes away. Thought it may have been the heat shield, as previously mentioned. While it was in for an oil change I had them to check it out. They stated it was the fuel line tensioner. I had the noise for awhile, didn't pop up on the 60k service report, but it wasn't bothering me till winter came. $240. I will more than likely get it replaced next oil change. Just my report.


Poirot

[EdBwoy]

Poirot, I dont doubt you but I can't immediately think of anything in the M45 fuel system layout that can rattle.
Could the shop by chance have shown the part number they quoted you to replace?

[Ilya]

Poirot, I dont doubt you but I can't immediately think of anything in the M45 fuel system layout that can rattle.
Could the shop by chance have shown the part number they quoted you to replace?

This. I have never heard of a 'fuel line tensioner' and a quick Google turned out only 'belt tensioners'...I'd ask for proof from the shop and/or take it to another shop. Fuel lines are hoses...shouldn't rattle.

[Poirot]

Sorry, I misspoke... In looking at the report, it is listed a fuel line dampener. Looked it up at Infiniti parts and the closest thing was a fuel injector dampener. We will have to see....

Poirot

[sebvox]

The noise sounds like your belt tensioner. You could remove the belt from the PS pump to see if it is indeed your PS pump or not then start the car. If you still have the noise then I would bet it's your belt tensioner.

[Mochaduc77]

I recently posted about this and have had similar issues. I'm 99.9% certain its my power steering and you sound like you might have a similar issue. Checking the PS fluid is a first good step. Making sure to get air out of the system is a good second step. That's just turning the steering wheel, lock to lock several times with the engine off, then while on. Don't hold it in the lock position while its running for more than about 3 seconds. If your belts are seated right, this would be my first steps. I, however, am now dealing with a massive PS fluid leak and will be investigating that soon