GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Clicking/Ticking Sound/Noise Heard During Cold Start - Sound/Noise Decreased, But Continues as Engine Warms (Normal Operation of High Pressure Fuel Pump and Injectors)

Subject:Clicking/Ticking Sound/Noise Heard During Cold Start - Sound/Noise Decreases, But Continues As Engine Warms (Normal Operation of High Pressure Fuel Pump and Injectors )

Models:2008-2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, HHR SS
2007-2009 Pontiac Solstice
2007-2009 Saturn Sky
2007-2009 Opel GT
2007-2008 Daewoo G2X
with 2.0L Turbo Engine (VIN X - RPO LNF)



This bulletin is being revised to add the 2009 model year. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 06-06-93-001D (Section 06-Engine).


Do This

Don't Do This

Inform the customer that this is normal operation of the high pressure fuel pump and injectors.

DO NOT replace the high pressure fuel pump and or injectors.

The 2.0L turbo engine (VIN X - RPO LNF) uses a direct injection fuel system that operates at very high fuel pressures. A direct injection fuel system produces a rapid, clicking and ticking sound that can be heard from the engine compartment. The sound is more evident when outside around the vehicle or when the hood is open. The sound is more noticeable during idle, and is more frequent during a cold start but lessens once the engine is warm. The rapid ticking noise on cold start up is the fuel pump (located on the rear of the cylinder head) building up high fuel pressure. When the engine warm-up is completed, the high pressure fuel pump will continue to tick at a lower rate of approximately one tick per second during idle. The clicking sound is the fuel injectors pulsing on and off under higher fuel pressures. These sounds are the results of a normal direct injection fuel system operating properly.

DO NOT attempt to repair or replace any parts for this kind of clicking or ticking concern. The clicking or ticking sound is not indicative of any concerns with the engine or the vehicle. You may wish to give the customer a copy of this bulletin.