I don't like to use the word "chatter", since it's associated with all the upgraded clutches, but it's the only thing I can think of.

Quick re-cap: my car is an 06' with the stock clutch, 90,000 miles.

Recently when I engage the clutch I hear a "chatter" or "clinking" coming from the front of the car. Only happens while the clutch is engaged, as soon as I release it the sound stops.

I don't feel the clutch slipping just yet, so i'm just curious what sounds I could be hearing by engaging the clutch. The sound seems to match the rev of the engine. Hence if i'm going faster, the clicking is faster as well.


Any thoughts?

 

Is there any vibration of the drive train associated with the noise?

 

honestly it sounded closer to the engine/front axle more than the rest of the drivetrain.
not sure what it was, but it has since gone away.

perhaps it could've been related to low oil. i'm ashamed to say, but my oil was really low recently. my oil light was even turning on/off for a day or two. i run full synthetic and i change my oil a little after the 3,000 mile mark regardless if it can go for 5k+

i've never experienced low or burning oil, but i was stunned to find such low levels this time around.

so i'll keep an eye on it, but for now she seems like she's running smoothly again.

 

Chatter = throwout bearing
Clicking = rear axle

 

thx for the heads up. i'll keep that in mind. I don't think it's the infamous rear axle clicking because i've never heard it going in reverse down a hill. i've been doing more research and i've found tons on the throwout bearing issues.