How you know to adjust valves... ?

Simply put, what are the signs that you should do a valve adjustment to our cars?
Any noises, loss in fuel economy, etc… anything that tells me a valve adjustment is definately in need.

Also, with decent knowledge of tools, how long will a valve adjustment take without taking the wheels off the front end?

Thanks.
~Eric

You’ll probably hear some noises from the valvetrain if it needs adjustment. Clicking or something. But if it hasn’t been done in a long time, it’s good to check it anyways.

It won’t take you long, but the engine has to be completely cool (like don’t drive it for about 12 hours before you do this). Might take you 1/2 hour or something.

But why would you take the wheels off?

At idle or low speed you should be able to hear ticking coming from engine. I’ve heard that low MPG is also a sign. But many things contribute to low MPG.