(Please help) 2002 dodge stratus rt 3.0 v6

Asked by Matthew Sep 09, 2017 at 05:01 AM about the 2002 Dodge Stratus R/T Coupe FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 2002 dodge stratus RT 3.0 v6 automatic
coupe makes a knocking/grinding type
noise when I start it for the first time of the
day but if I turn it back off and start it up
right after it goes away what could be the
problem?

1 Answer

That would be the infamous rattle tick that happens when the timing belt tensioner loses tension on the timing belt. Buy a timing belt kit that has the timing belt, water pump, tensioner, bearings, water pump gasket and crank seals. You also might wanna replace the position crank sensor! The Mitsubishi 3.0 V6 is peppy engine but if you don't do the maitnence you will have problems! I would also do a tune up, sparkplugs, wires, distributer cap and rotor and valve cover gasket seals. Replace both upper and lower hose and thermostat and hose clamps. I know it sounds like a lot but it's cheaper than buying a new car or making car payments with full coverage insurance!

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