Glossary / General

valve train

24 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

The valve train helps the engine breathe by opening and closing the valves that let air and fuel in and exhaust out. If it doesn't get enough oil, it can make a ticking noise.

Technical Definition

The valve train is a component of an internal combustion engine that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It includes parts like camshafts, lifters, and pushrods, and is crucial for proper engine operation.

Hear It Discussed

"...you were starving the valve train of its lubrication and you were getting the ticking."
#2595: The Big Hair Problem The Best of Car Talk 07:43

"Because those three point, those EcoBoost motors... with the turbos, they get a little more carbon buildup in the valve train."
Guys Giving Free Car Advice Over The Air You Can Call Too Under The Hood show 31:24

"because the engine won't be able to turn his free and the valve train won't operates as easily as it should, and you'll create a stutter and a miss and you'll be chasing a misfirefault."
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - May 30, 2026 - Hour 2 Ron Ananian The Car Doctor 02:50