CX-7 Engine Knock

[Spannerhead]

Hi guys. Considering buying an '09 CX-7 with the 2.3 turbo but the seller says "the motor knocks." Otherwise the car's in pristine condition.

What does this typically mean? VVT issues? Or something with the bottom end?

Thanks!

 

[luklyz]

Cold start knock or chain rattle - vvt
Bottom end knock spun bearings.
2.3t engines are good till they are not. This engine biggest failure point are injectors. The filters in the injector is made out of paper mesh. That paper clogs the injector and they leak fuel into cylinder which is causing oil contamination. Diluted oil provides very little lublication which is causing connecting rod bearing spun. Mainly on cylinder no3 becasue that cylinder shares oil gallery with balancing shaft assembly.

I fixed around 20 cx7 with 2.3 always replaced injector filters with stainless steel filters and never had issues after that.

 

[Spannerhead]

Thanks! Fortunately I passed, and got an '03 MPV instead.