1999 Pontiac Grand AM 2.4L engine rattle?

[franfan123]

OK, as I know these cars are generally troublesome-- anyone having the same problem?
I have a 1999 Grand AM SE with the 2.4 dohc. I bought it with only 12000 miles. It has been very well maintained, actually no "outside" warranty problems at all. UNTIL, driving home one night with 112000 miles on the odometer, the car started a terrible "rattle" from the top of the engine. I have been told everything from the camshafts to the crankshafts. The car is holding the same oil pressure as it always did, it never ran hot, and it no even misfiring-- just a rattle. It does seem to come from the timing chain cover. I haven't removed it, yet. The car is not smoking, just a rattle. Is this a common problem for this car, and if so, what is it? Would it require a trip to the dealer, or are there aftermarket parts to fix it? Anyone with any help,knowledge, or solutions please let me know. Thanks in advance.

 

[idontgivafork]

look its time to change the timing set and maybe even new lifters before that chain breaks.now for the bad news. that engine is a total pain, itll be expensive and its not an easy job.if that chain happens to break, junk it.

 

[mr wabbit]

yes the 2.4L quad 4 is one of the most problematic 4cyl engines from gm unfortunately and have many issues from oil pump pressure loss, to timing chain failures, to cracked head, and so on.

always expensive repairs

dont go to dealer they will charge you double or triple for anything with this engine.

once this engine develops trouble it always seems to have more and more.

most people will not touch them, will not work on them.

i have done timing set on a few of these and it takes about 14 hours or more to do it. it is a huge job.

same with water pump and head removal and replacement,

etc.

 

[Scott W]

Could be as simple as a belt tension-er as noise travel,also it could be the cam bearings making noise.It sound like you have had good luck with the car to drive it 100,000 miles and not have much go wrong and you cant complain about that.