I have a 94Z28(Auto) with 96,000 miles. One day i started my car there was a mild ticking noise coming from the motor, and then went away after about 10 minutes. The next day the noise was back and didnt go away, and my car runs like crap and sounds weird. I took it to a shop and they said my head gasket is starting to go, so this weekend im taking it apart and replacing all the gaskets and everything. Anyone know what this ticking noise could be? Im pretty sure its not an exhaust leak.

 

Could be a lifter not pumping up.

 

The main problem is relatively high mileage. Things wear and margins become greater which often causes noise and loss of efficiency and power. While 100 grand isn't too many miles, one needs to understand that things aren't as good as they were.

I would definitely want to know how the shop has determined that you need new head gaskets before a wrench gets turned.

Consider that the noise might be from the valve train that needs some adjusting. If your valves are not working correctly, you are going to lose power. If your rockers are out of adjustment, they will make more noise than usual and your valves will not work as well as when properly adjusted. So take a look at the top end before you crack the block, unless you are certain that it is the head gaskets causing the problems.JMHO

 

well they said my head gasket is bad because of bubbles in my radiator and also it keeps burning coolant. Im not saying that this is the cuz of ticking noise. Im gonna replace the head gaskets and hope to find out wat could cause the noise. Could anyone give me a list of possiblities? also something i left out is that the car runs rough and shakes alot at idle.