Engine knocking, or detonation, occurs when fuel in the cylinders ignites unevenly, causing metallic pinging sounds, reduced power, and potential engine damage. Key causes include low-octane fuel, ...

A knocking sound from the engine often triggers worst-case assumptions, but piston slap is a far more common—and usually less dangerous—culprit. It occurs when a piston lightly contacts the cylinder ...

I drive a 2009 Honda Pilot Touring 4WD. I hear some knocking when I start the engine. It eventually becomes relatively quiet after a minute or two. Would it be a good idea to start using synthetic oil ...