NOt sure if you are still looking at posts, but I ran across this because I was noticing the same thing with mine. I have a 2011 Avenger with the Pentastar. it has about 19,000 miles on it. It would make this noise in the morning for a cold start at first, but now it makes it about 2/3 of time as long as it has sat for at leas 1 hour. I had the exact problem with a Mazda. it turned out to be a VVT issue. it will eventually start blowing an engine code. I took it to the dealer and they of course could not duplicate the issue. Thankfully, it has a long enough warranty to cover it when it happens on every start. It will get to that point. My Mazda sure did.I'm curious if anyone else out there with a pentastar equipped vehicle is getting the same thing.
First of all, this is completely intermittent.
At random times, when the car has been sitting, usually overnight or for a few days... At startup, there is significant clatter. Sounds like its coming from up top. (valve clatter) I asked a friend of mine, who is a dealer tech and he mentioned that there is some info out there where a CEL illuminates with a code for a valve or solenoid for the VVT system. the wording he used escapes me... but, I'm still curious if there are any other 3.6 owners who have experienced this.
the clatter lasts up to one second. no longer than that.
2011 Journey Mainstreet
btw... let me add that i'm a LOOOONG time Mopar owner/fan and i aint in here being a crybaby, either.
I'd say so. I've been following the Wrangler forums for issues with the motor, and there have been a fair amount of complains about ticking coming from the LH side head. VVT cam phaser issue is a new one for me.Is this issue specific o the new 3.6L Pentastar engine?
I'm with you, I'll be following this board closely to see what exactly Chrysler plans to do going forward. The Pentastar engine was supposed to be one of the best designed engines from what I've read. I'm hoping this issue is a hiccup and not a major problem. I want a 2013 Rubicon, but I want to be certain these engine issues are resolved before the 2013's roll out, and before I buy.I'd say so. I've been following the Wrangler forums for issues with the motor, and there have been a fair amount of complains about ticking coming from the LH side head. VVT cam phaser issue is a new one for me.
I've put back my purchase until there's some solid information regarding root cause and permanent corrective actions.