Expert: Sean Halliday - 12/31/2007

Question
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Here is what happened. I have a 2000 Sportage. It was starting rough, and missing out off and on while driving. So, I thought it was about time for a plug change. When changing the plugs, I noticed there was oil around the plugs. I pulled off the valve cover, changed the gasket and installed new plugs. It was about time for an oil change, so I went ahead and done that too. Took it for a test drive down the road and everything seemed fine. Today, while driving, I heard a loud ticking from the motor. The oil light flashed on and off, and then stayed on. I immediately stopped and checked the oil. It was full. I am no expert but this sounds like the oil pump. It did not do this until the valve cover gasket was changed and new plugs installed. Any ideas? Thank you.

Answer
The oil change and valve cover are probably not related.It does sound like a oil pump problem and you will need to look at it.If you can repair it yourself then go ahead but the oil pan will need to come off.You cannot start the engine like this as you will destroy the engine in no time.I would suggest towing it to a shop.