I have recently bought a 2003 S40, 96k on the clock, 2 previous owners, good service history up to 2009 last owner not so great at maintaining the schedule. A few days ago I noticed a regular rattling noise coming from the engine, not very loud nor persistent. First long journey (~300miles) and the noise has come back this time with a knocking sound at the end. The noise is coming from the left side (as you look at it) of the engine, have checked spark plugs and belt and they seem OK. The rattle seems to be coming from the cylinder head area. A more mechanically savvy friend thinks it might be something to do with the camshaft? Any ideas as to what this could be? Just bought the car and don't want to shell out a fortune to fix it, but if it is an easy fix will be happy to get it sorted.

 

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