So..., i went to look at another 04 today. But it has a tick... Here are the details:

- 70K miles on a 2004 S.
- tick starts when warm
- tick only happens at idle up to about 1500 rpm
- tick increases in speed when revving (up to 1500 when it quiets down)
- tick appears to come from top of block, though hard to locate exact spot

I did a carfax and found that in 2005/2006 the water pump was replaced 4(!) times between 08/2006 and 05/2007. The valve gasket was replaced and the coolant system was checked 4 times as well. Also the fuel pump and fuel filter neck was replaced in this same time period. Furthermore the last time the waterpump was replaced, the thermostat was also replaced and the coolant system was flushed. All done at the stealer...

Should i assume the car overheated? The second owner just did the regular oil changes and reported no overheating issues. BUT, there's the infamous tick...

Could it be the lifters? What would i get myself into?

The rest of the car being in excellent condition (of course it will need new brakes in few months, new tires in a year, Mike 60K service required, new driveshaft, etc) what would you guys pay for it? Ballpark...

Thanks guys!

 

Never assume anything when it comes to a Rover.
Find a good local Rover shop and pay for a pre-purchase inspection to rule out any big issues.
How much are they asking for the 04?

 

One advanced theory put forward on that type of tick is the slipping cyclinder liner. It starts when warm. It moves with the piston, pounding the fire ring of the head gasket. As rpm increase, a point is reached where there is not enough time for it to slide all the way to make contact, as there is some "slip" between it and the piston. Hence the noise going away at higher rpm. But there are other souces of "the tick".

Pro inspection can save you a lot of grief. There have also been recent posts of owners "pinning" the sleeve with bolts thru the engine block. IMHO not a good way to start your servitude to the Rover, unless that purchase price is ultra low.

 

Yeah, i've learned not to assume anything...

Asking $6950 which in my opinion is too much for the S with a tick, but right around KBB. I was thinking of offering $5000...