I'm hoping someone has some ideas as to what might be the cause of loud engine noise in my 2006 Subaru Outback, manual transmission, 135k miles.

 

I recently had a flush and oil change - about 2 weeks ago. For the last week the engine is noticeably louder.  It consistently sounds like I'm at about 3-4 or so on the tachometer/RPM and need to shift but the gauge shows 2-2.5, which is correct for actual speed I'm going and gear I'm in when I check. However, the sound the engine is making is consistent with what that would sound like. Sounds like it's working harder than it should.

 

Any ideas?  Could it be related to the flush/oil change? I was told recently that I should get the head gaskets and belts changed but I haven't been able to get to that. Could the sound be a sign that those are failing?

 

Any advice would be helpful!  Let me know what to look at.  I'm hoping I can delay making costly repairs until January but the sound also concerns me - I don't want my car to die on me!  Hoping to pass it down to my kids when they starts driving soon!

easiest mistake that might create more noise would be not getting the airbox seated properly.

 

can you describe the noise more? is it a whoosh or a ticking or ???

 

these cars also can have loose heatsheilds.

 

what shop did the work? if they are unfamiliar with Subarus, maybe a mistake was made with draining/filling the correct fluid - check fluid levels ASAP.  consider taking it back and take someone for a ride to demonstrate the sound.

It's not a ticking noise. Sounds like the engine is revving - like the sound build up just prior to shifting to a higher gear.

 

Good idea - the shop that did the flush and change is close by. I'll swing by there at lunch time and have the take a ride/look.

Agree w/1LuckyTx. check fluids asap. What did he flush? Does the engine also sound louder at idle? When you start the engine for the first time of the day do you hear some light/moderate tapping and does that go away after a minute or so? Also check the weather stripping, maybe something got pulled off or loosened, especially on hood or maybe a slightly open window. Good luck!

I regard 'flush' as a scary word...