Hi,

Car experts, this Mazda Demio sounds like a Diesel engine, yet it's a Petrol engine. Worse in the morning, and still persists during the day.

Is this normal with Mazda's? (1st time to use Mazda).

garage guy changed the timing belt sometime back and problem persists. That sound is quite irritating. I expect a petrol engine to be smoother than this.

Car came in November. Mileage was 40K then (if it matters at all)

Did it have this problem when it came? is the engine light on? has the exhaust manifold mounting been checked it could be leaking? did you import the car yourself because 40K for such a car would be as good as new!

Never had a problem before, (i.e since November, 2012 when it was brought in).

And yes, Self Import. SBT Japan.

No Engine light. (atleast I have not seen yet)

Exhaust manifold mounting (not sure I have checked this at all). Done at the garage?

And yes, it came at 40K, basically New. To me, was a good deal (i still think). 3500 USD -CIF, then.

Generally, nothing else obviously suspicious, apart from the 'diesel-like' sound. The revs are quite noticeable.

@webish

Nothing to worry about your car is normal. its a design issue there is nothing to fix.

Webz, ominous sound. the engine is on its way out. it will get worse with time/heat. take this to the bank. The tappets/valves are most likely loose/worn out. the cylinder head has to be opened and i doubt if they are adjustable for a demio. Let your mech confront you with the truth.To hide the hideous noise add motor honey to engine oil and see if that helps. Long time back, in my case, i just bought another cylinder head and the noise was sorted.