It’s normal for the engine to make soft noises and purring sounds because of all those rotating shafts and pistons in motion. But, engine ticking or clicking is not one of them. You have a legit reason to be worried because the repair could be expensive.
Ticking noise from engine happens when any of the reciprocating parts in the car is damaged. Not all ticking or clicking sounds are ominous. The only way to stay worry-free is to learn the causes and solutions.
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The Causes of Engine Ticking
Car ticking noise could be a normal affair depending on the design of the engine. For example, fuel-injected engines can make a car ticking from the injector’s firing.
Fuel injectors are small electrical valves that make clicking and ticking sounds when quickly opening and closing at idle. Ticking of the injectors is normal and you can drive without any worry.
However, ticking noise in car could be a serious issue in these conditions.
Low oil level or pressure
It is bad news when the ticking sound in engine is coupled with low-level oil or low oil pressure. When this happens, oil does not reach the top part of the engine, making it create a shrill tapping or ticking sound.
The root of the problem is likely to be the timing chain or valvetrain components, including camshafts, rockers, lifters, and cam adjusters.
You should check the oil level with a dipstick and fill up the tank if the level is low. Check the oil pressure next with a pressure gauge when the engine is warm at idle. The pressure is fine if the reading is between 15 and 20 PSI.
Exhaust manifold leak
An exhaust manifold leak is the cause of engine ticking at idle and acceleration. It happens when exhaust gases leak at high pressure from a leak in the gasket or a rupture in the manifold.
This is not a serious problem, and you can still drive. But, fix it as soon as possible because excessive leaking of exhaust gases won’t be good for the engine.
Worn-off valvetrain components
The most common source of ticking problems is the valvetrain. The unit has several parts that work together to make sure the distance that the valves move is precise.
These devices could be out of shape because of normal wear over time, causing the ticking sound when the engine is running. The repair is not expensive as you may just need to install new shims or adjust the rocker.
Read More: Why Does Oil Pressure Go High?
Rod knocking
Rod knock could be the possible reason for a major engine issue. When the bearing connected to the rod wears off or gets damaged, the rod knocks around the crankshaft and creates a metal-to-metal sound.
You will hear a rhythmic, loud ticking noise in engine when accelerating. It will gain pace with the speed of the car. The repair is expensive as you need to rebuild the motor.
Bad spark plugs
Loose or cracked spark plugs cause ticking sound in engine. Make a visual inspection when the engine is off and cool. Replace if any of them is cracked. Wiggle the plug after removing the spark plug wire to see if it moves.
If yes, then you have to tighten the plug. Sometimes, the torquing of the plug is not correct. In that case, you have to re-install it by following the owner’s manual.
Spark plugs seal off each of the cylinders. Bad plugs may sometimes strip the cylinder head threads. If that happens, you have to either repair or replace the damaged cylinder heads.
Front engine accessories
There are several accessories in the front part of the engine that can create that ticking noise. Any of these systems, including water pumps, AC compressors, pulleys, or belt tensioners can be at fault.
You can use a mechanic’s stethoscope to pinpoint the problem source but it is better to consult a mechanic to find out the troubling part and do the repair work. It is necessary to replace the failing accessories to stop the noise.
Loose or damaged engine fan
A loose or damaged engine fan can also be the reason for engine ticking or tapping noise. A visual inspection is enough to find out the problem. Check the bolts and clips to see if they are loose.
Also, you can tell if the fan blades or shroud on the radiator are damaged just by looking at them. Tighten the loose bolts and replace them if anything is damaged.
How To Fix Ticking Noise In Engine?
A ticking engine can be unsettling, but troubleshooting the noise doesn’t always require advanced mechanical knowledge. Start with the simplest solution: check your oil level.
Low oil is a common culprit and easily remedied by adding more. If the ticking vanishes, the problem is solved. If it persists, however, further investigation is needed.
For persistent ticking, professional diagnosis is crucial. Attempting complex repairs without proper training can exacerbate the problem and lead to more extensive damage.
When you take your car to a mechanic, be prepared to describe the ticking sound as accurately as possible.
Note when it occurs (e.g., at idle, during acceleration, when the engine is cold), its frequency (fast or slow), and any other accompanying symptoms.
The mechanic will likely perform a thorough inspection, including a test drive, listening with a stethoscope, and using diagnostic equipment.
They may also check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint specific issues. Based on their findings, they’ll recommend the necessary repairs.
Don’t delay seeking help if a simple oil check doesn’t resolve the ticking. Ignoring the problem can lead to more severe engine damage and significantly higher repair costs.
How To Prevent The Engine Ticking From Cars
As with other vehicle problems, to effectively prevent engine ticking noise, you need to pay attention to proactive maintenance and solve small problems, if any, preventing them from becoming severe.
And as usual, a sincere and helpful advice for all types of vehicles on all terrains, make sure to change the oil regularly. New oil on time will help maintain lubrication, reduce friction and corrosion of engine parts, and limit the occurrence of ticking sounds.
In any case, you should follow the recommended oil change intervals as stated in the owner’s manual.
In addition, carefully monitoring the condition and operation of the engine is optimal and especially necessary. Not only change, we also need to check the oil level to promptly handle any leaks.
Any unusual noises around the engine or sudden changes in performance can cause ticking and even damage your engine.
Another thing to keep in mind is to maintain a healthy cooling system. Overheating that occurs beyond normal levels can damage engine components and generate annoying ticking noises.
Ensuring that the engine oil is at the correct level, the coolant level is also adequate every day, and the cooling system is not experiencing any problems.
You should also check the hoses and belts around the engine for wear, leaks, and unexpected problems.
Always remember, spending a little time on engine maintenance and inspection daily will keep your engine running smoothly and quietly!
FAQs on Engine Ticking Sound
What exactly is “engine ticking,” and how is it different from knocking or tapping?
“Engine ticking” is not a common technical term, but it often refers to a faint, rhythmic ticking noise from the engine.
Unlike knocking (indicates detonation issues) or tapping (suggests worn valve components), ticking is usually a lighter, repetitive sound that can stem from valve lifters, injectors, or even minor lubrication issues.
Why does my engine ticking only after an oil change?
If you hear ticking after an oil change, it could be due to an air pocket in the oil system, low-quality oil, or an incorrect oil filter.
Running the engine for a few minutes usually allows the oil to circulate fully, eliminating the noise.
Why does my car tick only at idle but disappear when accelerating?
This could be due to slightly loose components that stabilize under higher RPMs, minor lifter wear, or normal fuel injector operation.
However, if the ticking grows louder over time, it might indicate developing wear in the valvetrain or timing components.
Is it safe to drive with an engine ticking noise?
It depends on the cause. But overall, it is not recommended.
If the ticking is due to normal fuel injector operation or minor valve train noise, it’s usually harmless.
On the other hand, if the noise worsens, is accompanied by performance issues, or is linked to low oil pressure, driving further could risk engine damage.
Watch this video from BMW Doctor to know how to fix car engine ticking!
Take your car to a mechanic whenever the engine starts making any unusual sound as the ticking one if necessary!
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