When I start my 2002 Dodge Neon when its cold outside, for about 15 to 30 seconds it sounds like a rod bearing is clacking away. Then it totally goes away. If its warm out it doesn't happen. Now I know your first reply will be what weight oil do I have in it. Its 5W30, just what the book calls for. Any one know what this could be? An on line mechanic told me don't worry about it if it goes away but when something sounds like its going to come through the hood thats kind of hard. I put slick 50 in it. Too soon to tell.

 

I get similar noises from my engine when it's cold out (nothing when it's warm). My rule of thumb is that when the sounds go away, the engine is warmed up enough to drive, haha. How cold are you talking?

PS - I also love the howl my vents make when it's 20 below zero on start up . . . it's incredibly loud.

 

all normal sounds guys. no worries.

 

mine does the same thing. I was told a couple times, no worries...it's a Neon thing.

...what bugs me is this is my second winter with the car.... am using the same oil as last winter...

...last year, no ticking in the cold months... this winter, I get ticking...guess it's the miles on the engine

 

Yeah, this is my third winter with this car and it's always done it.

The only thing that really bugs me is that my transmission fluid leaks when it gets cold . . . but not at all when it's warmer out. I need to take some time and look for where the leak is coming from. It's just too damn cold and I don't have a garage to play in.

 

Mine does the same thing, goes away after less than a min. First time I heard it I was like WTF

 

i looooove living in AZ

 

My car sounds like absolute horse **** when it's cold.

Even if it's cold later that day, it doesn't sound as bad as the first time I turn it on in the morning.

Stupid neon