2003 Mustang 3.8 Ticking Noise

Rafel Salcido said:

I recently bought a 2003 Mustang 3.8 Automatic, and it has a tick/tap noise coming somewhere from the engine bay. The noise speeds up as the rpms go higher. I have checked the oil level and it was good, and then I changed the oil and added a bottle of Lucas Oil stabilizer. I've read on some forums that it could be an exhaust leak or noisy valve... it is not a hissing noise it is a definite tapping noise... any help is greatly appreciated

Click to expand...

ChrisZ said:

First, just check the belt just to be sure. Then, I would get the exhaust looked at. It could very well be an exhaust leak. I used to have a 3.8 and it eventually got the same problem. If you do get it looked at, have the engine mounts looked at as well. One of mine was broken, and the exhaust by the engine kept breaking apart over time due to the stress of the engine reving and the pressure leaning on the exhaust.

Click to expand...