Just bought an '03 A6 Avant with 67K miles. Seemed to be in good shape - no nicks or dents; clean interior; clean CARFAX, etc., etc.. Runs very well getting 24 mpg at about 75 mph.

Problem: On start up, after sitting overnight, for about 3 - 4 seconds there is quite a lot of clatter in the engine. It does not sound exactly like lifter noise like the 5 cyl motors, and it stops apparently when oil gets to whatever is making the noise. I changed oil and filter (5w-30) and first thing this morning it seems even worse.

What is it and is there a fix?

Thanks,

 

for what it is worth here is my 2c. It could be the valve chain tentioner. mine (2000 2.7t with 77500 mi) will give a metalic rattling sometimes after start up. It only lasts for a few seconds and then goes away. The problem is that the oil pressure is at its lowest when started in the morning and it rattles untill the pressure builds up. not sure if it is a problem but things are ok with it for now.

 

good to know I'm not the only one hearing this.
I hate clatter.
I'm running Amsoil 5w40 Euro Synthetic and a Mann filter.
I just open the garage at the same time I start the car so I don't have to hear it and worry. lol
it definitely quiets down after the first 2-3seconds though.

00 2.7t-tip @ 87,000 miles
all preventative maint done.

 

Chatter noise is normal for the 3.0L engine, its just a lack of oil in the cam tensioners.
2.7T motors chatter a lot less, but tend to do it more often with full synthetic oils.

 

My 4.2 does the same thing. I do have a minor valve cover leak that I still need to get fixed, but not so sure this is related.

 

Thanks for the input guys. At least I know it's not a problem peculiar to my car. Guess I won't worry too much about it unless performance problems develop.

 

You guys answered my question also....I wondered about this with my 3.0 a6 avant. I figured it was nothing major.Mine also only occurs after a cold start and lasts for maybe 2 seconds

 

my 99 a6 2.8Q with 180k miles does the exact same thing, i was told by the stealership that this is ok.