* Low oil level: Insufficient oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing parts to rub against each other and knock.
* Low oil pressure: Even with sufficient oil, low pressure prevents adequate lubrication, resulting in knocking.
* Rod knock: This is a serious problem involving damage to the connecting rods, usually requiring engine repair or replacement.
* Piston slap: This is often heard when the engine is cold and can sometimes be a sign of wear.
* Valvetrain issues: Problems with the valves or lifters can produce a knocking sound.
* Detonation (pinging): This is caused by pre-ignition of the air-fuel mixture and can be due to low-octane fuel, advanced ignition timing, or other factors.
* Loose components: While less likely, a loose component could also be causing the noise.
It's crucial to have a mechanic diagnose the knocking sound immediately. Ignoring it could lead to significant and costly engine damage. The sooner you address the problem, the better the chances of a less expensive repair.
