Engine ringing noise
 

So, I have done minor things to my 5th Gen 2003 Camry. I have done brake jobs, radiator changes and hose replacements. Today was the first time in many years I let my father drive the car and it has come back to me with a ringing noise coming from the 2AZ-FE 4 banger. It sounds like a consistent thin-metal on metal tapping is noise. There seems to be no metal hoses loose in that area and through moving through the gears and using the clutch, I believe it is an internal engine problem, most likely piston rings. I am posting to see if anyone has gotten through similar problems, if I am correct in my assumption, and if I could be able to undertake the task my self. It is my daily and I have no choice, but to drive it like this for a couple days. Hopefully it won't burn all it's oil.

Check oil level at dipstick and oil on the stick for signs of metal.

Obtain a section of rubber hose to use as a stethoscope. Check the following:

Front, side, back, etc of engine for possible internal issues such as rings, bearings, etc.

Valve cover area for issues with the valve train. Check front of valve cover for issues with the VVTi system as this is where it is.

Intake manifold area for noise caused by intake air vibrating something inside the manifold..

Items powered by the engine drive belts such as alternator, water pump, power steering pump and A/C compressor. This for a failing bearing, pump or compressor.

Belt tension pulleys.

Thank you for the tips. I checked the oil and it is still new and full. The sound is coming from the mid to bottom inside the engine block, above the starter. The sound is opposite the pulleys, so it wouldn't be that. Also, none of the hoses in that area feel loose.

Is the sound from inside the bell housing/transmission housing.

Good news! I solved it like last week. It was just a bolt being a little loose on the underside of the block. No internal problems, Just one little loose bolt. Thanks for the help.

Great job in finding the problem!

Thanks for posting back with the fix.