Tapping noise

[mcwhorterjesse]

I've got a 2001 Accent 1.5 liter 5 speed. Car has 105,500 miles. Whenever the car is running, it makes an irritating tapping noise somewhere on the left side of the motor. I've been told that it sounds like the timing belt, but the car runs perfectly, doesn't miss. The tapping used to go away 30 seconds to a minute after starting it, but now it's constantly there and slightly louder. The noise goes with the rpms. When the rpms are higher, the tapping is faster. I've also noticed some loss of power. I recently added some octane booster to the fuel but noticed no difference. My uncle told me it may be a main bearing starting to go out but the tapping does not have a metallic tone of any.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

[Barnyspup]

Left side when standing at the front bumper?
That would be where the timing belt lives.

If the belt is nearing failure, broken rubber teeth on the belt may be slapping each time the belt goes 'round. If this is the case, you are getting a warning which few owners receive before the engine is toast.

See:
Cars for Keeps: March 2010 | AAA Automotive Advantage Company | Auto Repairs and Maintenance Tips | Grand Haven, MI
scroll about half way down for some typical pics.

Then again, perhaps it is one of the other drive belts for alternator, power steering, A/C. Some careful observation should tell you.

Jim

[mcwhorterjesse]

Many thanks Jim.

[mcwhorterjesse]

I know the serpentine belt is pretty new. The other belts, not so sure.