Strange Autobox Noise

[Guest Aussie Phil]

I have a strange "fault" in my 01 Gal Zetec autobox. (Tiptronic). Everything appears to be working but I often get a strange "ticking" noise coming from the autobox first thing after startup. This noise persists for 3-4 minutes then disappears. I've noticed it more on cold mornings and occassionally on cold evenings after its been parked up all day.

 

The ticking is just like a clock and seemes unrelated to engine rpm or gear selection. The ticking noise speed is about 2 ticks/second. It is noticeable even with the radio on so you don't need to have your ear to the selector to hear it.

 

This has been going on for 2 years and has been reported to Ford at least 6 times but it seems to never happen when they have the vehicle. (so they say)

 

Has anyone ever heard this ticking noise coming from their autobox. ? Its still under warranty for another 12 months but if the box needs some work then I'd prefer to have it done sooner than later. Apart from this the box seems to be working fine. I'd appreciate any comments members may have.

 

Phil

[Paul]

Hi Phil,

 

Does the ticking noise only occur whilst the car is in motion?

[johnb80]

It's sounds very much like the booster heater pump from what you describe, why do you think it's coming from the autobox ???

 

Regards - John

[Paul]

I agree John, sound suspiciously like the Aux Heater Unit fuel solenoid. Its normal for this time of year!

[Guest Aussie Phil]

Hi Guys,

 

Appreciate the responses.

 

The ticking noise occurs whilst the vehicle is both stationary and in motion. But once it stops, its gone for the trip - be it 3 miles or 300.

 

I thought it was the autobox because thats where it seems to be coming from - the gear selector area. It also seems to vary in speed (maybe 20%) with engine revs. It can also vary in level, some days its just a gentle tick, other days its quite noticeable.

 

If it is the aux heater fuel solenoid, does the aux heater need to be switched on for the solenoid to operate or is there a temp sensor somewhere that controls it in order to have fuel available at the aux heater just in case it is switched on? Also where is it located, maybe I can pinpoint it if I know where to look.?

 

Thanks

Phil

[Paul]

Phil if you do a search under Aux Heater or booster heater, you will see a great deal of conversation on this subject. I would say that your Gal is alive and well and behaving quite normally.

 

Cheers!