2005 Cadillac SRX Engine Tick
 

Recently, the SRX ran low on oil (but no Oil Pressure light). First and only time. I now have a constant tick in the engine. At first I thought it was a rod knock, but it doesn't have the symptoms, i.e. no rough idle, no change of sound on acceleration or deceleration, and not very loud. As best as I can determine 1)it's not top end noise, 2) can't be heard from inside the car, 3) it does get a bit louder after the engine heats up, 4) the engine runs fine, 5) 1 for 1 with engine speed, and 6) tick across the rpm range. Engine info: 4.6L Northstar, 133K miles, Oil recent change and added GB MOA with some change noted.

Any suggestions before a motor replacement?

New Northstars are fairly pricey, I would be looking for a repair. How low was it and how did you know? You might have a Cadillac tech look at it and get an opinion.

I had it towed to Cadillac dealer In Denver when it went into limp home mode but no code was thrown. The said "oil was low" so I don't really know. Then took it too the Cadillac Dealer in my home town and they said replace the engine for $11K (probably what the car is worth). The only help we got from the Dealer mechanic was his statement that "there's a noise" in the engine. Well tada that's why I took the car in.

I'm leaning towards pins more than rod bearing. Either way I have to pull the engine.

The only other clue I have is it only sounds like one rod or pin. Again, too me this is a tick not a knock. It runs fine just the tick.

Ok then. How many miles since oil change? If it been over 500 miles you could change oil filter only, cut filter open and check for debris. If it's a bearing there should be material in filter pleats. It could be carbon which can cause a tapping noise. Decarboning could help. Does putting it gear change anything? If you take belt loose does noise change?

I'll pull the belt this weekend and get back on noise change.

Duh
 

OK - I'm embarrassed. So the Caddy threw a code for misfire. So replaced all the plugs and - yup - the tick went away. I hear a little valve noise after it gets warm but generally what you would expect. 40 years of working on cars and this one just threw me a curve ball. Sorry for taking up the thread.

it's fixed and did not require a new engine, lol