Hi, my car had recently developed a ticking noise that is coming toward the front side of the engine. I have researched the forum and came across various possibilities, but have not been finding luck in narrowing it down. I know the heat shields rattling is a good option, but my noise is coming from the front of the car as opposed to near the Y-pipe. Additionally, some individuals have stated that the fuel damper could be failing, which I examined using a mechanic's stethoscope and found that much of the noise was coming from there. However, I replaced this part 2 days ago with a used one but the rattle is still there.

I think I might've heard a few people talking about the purge valve or camshaft while others stating the possibility of needing to use Nissan ester oil alongside a TSB, but I wanted to share my issue with you guys in case anyone had experienced a similar thing before. Additionally, here is a sample video of the noise, which mainly develops and increases in speed around 2-2.5k RPM. Thanks.

 

From the video, it sounds like a puffing noise, as if you have some sort of exhaust leak. Did you use the OEM metal gaskets? Also, did you inspect the flex pipes?

 

No, I didn't use the OEM gaskets (got some compatible MAHLE steel ones from AutoZone) as I had done this task while being under the car checking for exhaust leaks using soapy water. Additionally, the flex part of my y pipe is shot, but I have bought the upgraded Z1 gaskets while scouring options for a new pipe.

I want to ask though, if that noise was due to the exhaust leak, then why was the sound concentrating all the way in the front of the car? Would it have something to do with an additional exhaust leak being present in the headers as well? Thanks.

 

Might be your flex pipe then, because I can't really hear much of the ticking that you are mentioning. Well, do you have test pipes?

 

No, I have some aftermarket catalytic converters that the previous owner recently replaced at the time of purchase (1 year ago). Tomorrow, I will try to get a better clip of the ticking noise that I am mentioning.