VVT gear cold start rattle?

2009 PONTIAC VIBE

160,000 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

RUDY R MIRANDA

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Is it worth replacing the VVT gear that's making the cold start rattle the car otherwise runs great? It's loud and annoying when it starts even if it is for a couple seconds. Will it hurt to just leave it alone?

Nov 12, 2023 at 7:06 PM

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I have seen the VVT valve have a restricted oil flow which can make the noise as well. Here is the location of the filter so you can check for debris on the inlet screen. Also make sure the engine oil is clean and full. Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so I can hear the noise? That way I can tell for sure what's going on. You can upload it here with your response. Check out the images (below). Let us know how it goes.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Nov 13, 2023 at 10:44 AM