1996 Saturn SL1 valve malfunction

1996 SATURN SL1
49,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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RICHARDNATHAN
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My engine has a fairly loud ticking noise, which has been diagnosed by a mechanic as a "stuck valve lifter." How important is it that I have this repaired/replaced? Can it lead to additional damage of the engine?

As the mechanic suggested, I tried an engine additive that was supposed to free the valve. I added it to the crankcase and ran the car for 10-15 minutes. The noise got louder rather than softer, so I decided not to continue. I replaced the oil immediately.

What should I do now?

Thank you for your help.

Richard
Mar 8, 2009 at 9:43 PM
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JAMES W.
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Richard, how long has this noise been with you? Does it come and go, or is it constant? It might be a worn cam follower or cam lobe. Over the long term, it really won't hurt anything. It's just an irritating noise. If it "is" a cam follower or a cam lobe, it will get gradually louder and may get to the point where the cylinder will misfire. Hope this helps.
Mar 9, 2009 at 12:57 AM
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RICHARDNATHAN
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James, I have noticed the noise since September, 2008. I hear it all the time. Thanks for the information.
Mar 9, 2009 at 9:59 AM
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JAMES W.
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Glad to help. If your noise gradually gets louder, you may still want to pull the valve cover just to see what's going on. Anything else, you know where to find us.
Mar 9, 2009 at 4:40 PM