Skip to content
EN · km
Language
Units
My Garage

Engine Knocking Or Pinging

A metallic pinging under load is usually combustion knock; a deep knock that follows engine speed can be a worn bearing and is serious.

High risk

Have it checked promptly. A deep knock from inside the engine can mean serious damage.

Short answer · Is engine knocking serious?

It depends on the sound. Light pinging when accelerating hard often comes from fuel of too low an octane or carbon deposits, and the engine can usually protect itself. A deep, rhythmic knock that rises with engine speed may be a bearing and needs immediate attention: check the oil level and stop if the oil warning comes on.

On this page

Safe checks you can do

  1. Check the oil levelLow oil can cause knocking from bearings and the valve train.If the oil pressure warning is on, stop the engine.
  2. Check the fuel gradeUse at least the octane rating in your owner's manual or on the fuel flap.
  3. Note when it knocksPinging only under load points to combustion knock; a knock at idle that follows revs points to mechanical wear.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Is it a light ping or a deep knock?Pinging is combustion; a deep knock is usually mechanical.
  2. Is the check engine light on?Knock sensor or lean mixture codes point to the cause.
  3. Did it start after refuelling?Wrong or poor fuel can cause knock.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Fuel octane too lowPetrol engines need the octane rating the manufacturer specifies.
  2. Carbon depositsRaise compression and create hot spots.
  3. Lean mixture or EGR faultHotter combustion makes knock more likely.
  4. Worn connecting rod or main bearingsDeep knock that follows engine speed.
  5. Valve train noiseWorn lifters or low oil give a ticking or tapping.

Questions about Engine Knocking Or Pinging

Will higher-octane fuel fix knocking?

It helps if the engine needs it or has deposits. It does not fix a mechanical knock.

Can I keep driving with a deep engine knock?

No. A bearing knock can turn into engine failure. Have the car checked before driving further.