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2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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wetzela1
New User
Sep 6, 2019, 7:59 AM
Post #1 of 10
(1316 views)
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2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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Hey all,
I have a 2013 Frontier with 78k miles on it. When starting the engine on cold(er) mornings, I am hearing this cracking/crackling/popping noise coming from under the hood. It usually lasts 1-5 seconds and the noise level seems to be tied to how cold the air is or how long the truck has sat.
I've seen some speculation that this is caused by oil pooling in the bottom of the engine and isn't a concern. I just have a hard time believing that.
Any thoughts on this one? Link to a the video is below. Noise starts at about 12 seconds, I can grab another video if needed.
https://youtu.be/Dl_s2awyUcc
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 6, 2019, 8:52 AM
Post #2 of 10
(1295 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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I didn't hear anything helpful with that. Basics, check engine oil and any clue how long it's been since changed? How about recording noise under the hood by being under the hood not behind the wheel inside?
Noises that are not usual are always worth finding out what and why then what to do about it.
BTW: Oil naturally "pools" back to pan at bottom of engine did you think it would be anywhere else when shut off?
If all fails for ideas have a tech listen to it in person if you have to leave the car/vehicle it can't be ignored whatever it is,
T
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 6, 2019, 9:02 AM
Post #3 of 10
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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I didn't hear it either but what you are describing sounds like a typical worn timing chain that rattles until the engine builds up oil pressure and the hydraulic tensioner takes up the slack.
Changing your oil a little more frequently may help if the tensioner is not holding pressure but it likely needs a new tensioner for the timing chain.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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wetzela1
New User
Sep 6, 2019, 11:14 AM
Post #4 of 10
(1275 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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I'll grab a video tomorrow morning from under the hood as it's warmed up today. I'm leaning towards the timing chain but need to find a way to verify that. Will likely have to have a tech take a look.
I understand oil pools in the bottom (except for German cars where it goes into the AC). What I have a hard time believing is that this noise is no cause for alarm. There are a few other forums that have folks going into the dealer and being sent right back on the road with an explanation about oil circulation and pooling.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 6, 2019, 11:24 AM
Post #5 of 10
(1261 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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Have a tech check it out is the best bet:
Hey was kinda just kidding about oil. If an engine is SUPER sludged up (about any) oil can't return OMG is that bad. I haven't seen any current, motor oils rated for anything you'd get today do that - first sign was sometimes oil down valve guides and smoke like a mosquito destroying machine!
T
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wetzela1
New User
Sep 6, 2019, 11:32 AM
Post #6 of 10
(1258 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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Ha - I know, I was just having some fun back! I agree with your thought process though and appreciate it.
Oil changes have been performed per the manufacturer and the latest was 2 months ago. I have seen some folks say that switched to synthetic and used the OEM filters and it relieved (but not solved) the issue.
I'm just miffed by this one though. I haven't found many other online with similar issues, and the one's that have are just accepting it. Like you said, any unusual noise should be a concern.
Anyway, I'll get (hopefully) better video tomorrow. It's warmed up here and I doubt it will make the noise again until a cooler morning.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 6, 2019, 11:55 AM
Post #8 of 10
(1241 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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OK, just beat on this some more. If doing your own or not read owner's manual what number of MONTHS and Miles is suggested. Then look what calls its use "severe" what that schedule is.
Nothing new with that if your read away almost nobody could be in what is "normal" use. No stop and go, no dusty conditions, not cold, no prolonged high speeds (legal speeds) throw in trailer towing, heavy loads too - point is it gets ridiculous. Do it on severe schedule nobody fits the "norm" the reason is the best oil in any situation is getting polluted picking up dirt, moisture just can't stay as it was new - don't go by looks either not the way. Windshield sticker, door jam or under the hood and check things anyway despite this thinks it knows everything will send you a love note on the dash display.
Oh - the real German original VW bug OMG what a pest to change oil. No filter just remove six I think nuts on a pan was easier to put it on it's roof wasn't that hard and tip it back over let oil drain and back on roof to put the dang pan thing back on!
Not kidding on the pan thing just NO don't tip thing over to work underside but you really could on those!
T
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wetzela1
New User
Sep 7, 2019, 9:27 AM
Post #9 of 10
(1202 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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Okay...let's try this again. Here's a video from under the hood. Noise starts at about the 8 second mark and tails off at the end.
Made an appt with a tech for next week, but I'm curious what your thoughts are...
https://youtu.be/td3UlQ9EUz8
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Sep 7, 2019, 10:46 AM
Post #10 of 10
(1188 views)
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Re: 2013 Nissan Frontier - Engine Cracking noise on start up (w/ video)
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Keep that appointment! That's late as it was running for a little bit. Hydraulic lifters of any kind, anywhere that don't hold position usually are right away no wait at all like an "out of oil" sound OR if you don't or can't fill oil filters for oil changes first they wait a second or two (some) to shut up.
It's neither IMO but still not there so keep the apt. Hope it's nothing but better to know,
T
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