My car has developed a slight issue. Every now and then, the engine will make a clattering sound. I've tried to narrow it down to a specific circumstance, but it seems a bit random.

For the most part, it seems to happen when in the highest gear (around 45 mph or higher) and I try to pick up speed. it only happens when I don't hit the pedal hard, like it tries to pass without kicking down a gear. It has happened once or twice when I try to accelerate up a hill.

It'* bugging me because I know it shouldn't be there. The oil level is in the middle of the "OK" area on the dip stick. I have about 4000 miles on this oil change, so it'* getting replaced soon. I use full synthetic and an stp filter

Any ideas, or need more info that I forgot?

Thanks
Jeff

Sounds to me like torque convertor clutch slip/chatter. But it could be a low RPM/elevated load misfire.

Hopefully someone will chime in on how to narrow it down.