mxt_77

If you haven't already put it in, you could verify that it's the tensioner first (assuming you can hear it at idle, or by slightly revving the engine without load).

Take an automotive stethoscope and put it on the back of the tensioner. Then rev the engine to the point where you can hear the sound. If you can hear the sound through the stethoscope, then that's probably your problem. If not, you may want to look elsewhere before replacing the tensioner.

Also, if you don't have a true automotive stethoscope, you can use a long screwdriver as a substitute. Put the pointy end against the back of the tensioner, and put your ear up to the handle. That's what I had to do to pinpoint my tensioner problem.

Considering that we've seen about a billion of these tensioner threads, I wonder if anyone has taken the time to write Honda to let them know that there appears to be an issue with it.

p0pe

Mine sounds exactly the same. I wonder if it's actually a problem or more of a nuisance.
Has anyone reported this to Honda? Billman?

jyeung528

what can potentially happen if you don't replace it?

because i don't notice sounds from my engine because i assume those sounds to be normal?

Billman250

It's pretty distinct...

Bigpurp had a walkaround video clip of the noise, maybe he'll post it up...I'll ask him about it.

mxt_77

Worst case scenario? At some point, there may be enough slack in the timing chain that it jumps a tooth. Valves kiss pistons, there's all sorts of in-breeding going on in the combustion chamber and you get shredded, molten chunks of valves & pistons trickling out your tailpipe.

If you have the problem, you'll know it, because your engine will sound like your bicycle did when you used to put a playing card in the spokes. Trust me, there's nothing about it that sounds "normal".

B.C.

My part is still arriving.. Hopefully by Friday.. At least that's what tracking says...

BC

B.C.

I'm so happy. The noise comes and goes. Last night it was gone. Can't wait for my part to come.

Thanks to all. Will update you guys!

BC

toeknee

let me know how it goes back-cracker...here is an update on mine..its starting to whine like a supercharger. The noise is coming from the engine bay and not the back. i want to find out what the sound is for myself because i don't want my car sitting at the dealer for a week when it can be fixed in a few hours. also do you think this will be covered under warranty?