1. Low Oil Pressure: If the oil pressure in the engine is too low, it may not be able to properly circulate and provide sufficient lubrication to the hydraulic tappets. This can cause them to become noisy as they do not receive the necessary oil flow. Check the oil level and oil filter condition, and ensure that the oil pump is functioning properly.
2. Worn Tappets: Over time, hydraulic tappets can wear out and become loose, affecting their ability to adjust the valve clearance properly. Worn tappets can make a distinct clattering or ticking noise. In this case, the tappets may need to be replaced.
3. Dirty Oil: Contaminated oil with debris or excessive sludge can clog the small passages within the hydraulic tappets, preventing them from functioning correctly. Ensure that the oil is clean and free from contaminants by following the recommended oil change intervals.
4. Oil Viscosity: Using the wrong oil viscosity can affect the flow of oil to the tappets. If the oil is too thick, it may not be able to reach the tappets effectively, while too thin oil may not provide adequate lubrication. Consult the owner's manual for the recommended oil viscosity for your Skoda Fabia.
5. Damaged Lifters: In severe cases, the lifters associated with the hydraulic tappets may become damaged or worn out, leading to excessive noise. This might require repair or replacement of the lifters and associated components.
It is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic if you notice noisy hydraulic tappets in your Skoda Fabia 1.4 automatic to identify the exact cause and get the issue resolved appropriately.
