gurgling noise when engine is idling

2004 HONDA ELEMENT
230,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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CMGARCIA
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  • 2 POSTS
car has faint gurgling noise when idle. It goes away when put in park. does not continue when the car gets turned off.
Apr 26, 2022 at 12:07 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

This could be a couple of things. First, make sure the engine coolant is full. If low, there could be air on the heater core under the dash.

Next, pay attention to if it seems to only happen when the AC is used or the Defroster.

I'm assuming you hear it in the vehicle. If it is loud enough to record, do so and upload it for me to hear.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-coolant-59420607

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 26, 2022 at 7:54 PM
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CMGARCIA
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  • 2 POSTS
Hello, my radiator reserve was bone dry. I filled it and noise has gone away. Thank you very much!
May 2, 2022 at 12:27 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. Since it was empty, check it again after driving it to make sure the coolant wasn't all drawn into the engine. It may still be low and require more.

Additionally, check to make sure nothing is leaking. Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Let me know and thank you for the update. If you have other questions or if I can help in any way, let me know.

Take care of yourself,

Joe
May 2, 2022 at 8:24 PM