Jacsor

Hi, i have a 2004 chevy cavalier and it has already 120,000 miles, i hear every morning a noise in the engine, when it gets hot the noise stops, i heard that i have to put a different kind of oil but dunno :/ someone please help me!!

Thanks!

ld9z24

As far as oil goes, it's best to stick with what the vehicle manufacturer recommends for your engine and NEVER use additives or any mechanic in a can, instant fix, or magic voodoo stuff !!! It should say what type of oil to use on your oil cap or in your owners manual if you have one. I'm experiencing a similar issue with my 99 cavalier z24. However it has the 2.4 ld9 twin cam engine and I believe that the 2004 model has the 2.2 ecotec l61. My engine makes very brief sharp rattle noise during cold startup and it's definately coming from the top end of the engine. There's a TSB from GM concerning the issue on the newer ecotecs as follows :

#PIP4716A: Sharp Engine Rattle Noise At Start Up - (Feb 10, 2011)

Subject: Sharp Engine Rattle Noise At Start Up

Models: 2011 Buick Regal
2010-2011 Buick LaCrosse
2009-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
2010-2011 Chevrolet Equinox
2009-2011 Chevrolet HHR
2009-2011 Chevrolet Malibu
2010-2011 GMC Terrain
2009-2010 Pontiac G5
2009-2010 Pontiac G6
2009-2010 Pontiac Solstice
2009-2010 Saturn Aura
2009-2010 Saturn Sky
2009-2010 Saturn Vue Equipped with the following engines
2009-2010 2.0L (RPO LNF)
2009-2011 2.2L (RPO LAP/LE8)
2009-2011 2.4L (RPO LE5/LE9/LAT/LAF)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This PI was superseded to update models, years. Please discard PIP4716.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern:
In rare instances a technician may comment they hear a short, sharp rattle noise from the front of the engine on start up.

Recommendation/Instructions:
If the noise is from the front accessory drive area, inspect the engine belt. We have seen concerns with engine belts causing a loud ticking type noise. If found, verify power steering pulley outer edge is aligned flush with shaft and repair as needed. If pulley alignment is correct replace the engine belt.

If the noise is still present and is very short and sharp in duration (2-5 seconds). This may be an issue with the cam phasers not parking properly. Once the noise is verified as the phasers, they must be replaced. If the cam phasers are replaced, remove the CMP actuator solenoids to inspect for debris. If debris is found clean and inspect for torn or loose screens and replace if necessary.

Note: If debris is found in the solenoids and phasers change the oil and filter before returning to service, in some instances it may be necessary to change the oil/filter multiple times with a test drivein between each. The filter and solenoids can be inspected afterwards to ensure no additional debris is present.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information. WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION