When your vehicle starts to make strange noises, it is surely something not to be ignored. It can be especially concerning if you are unable to locate the source of the noise. One such alarming car noise is the ticking one that traces down to the car’s engine.
Read on to learn about the reasons behind the engine ticking noise.
What Happens If You Hear a Loud Ticking Noise from the Engine
The engine ticking noise can be of varying intensity. The louder it gets, the more alarming it is. The engine ticking noise is often described as ‘lifter ticks’ by automotive experts. Loud ticking from the engine tends to be more prominent when starting the engine in cold weather or when accelerating.
Most commonly the noise arises due to a lack of lubrication or it can be due to valve lifter failure. However, since you are unaware of the exact root cause of the engine ticking noise it is better not to meddle with your car systems. All you need to do is take your car for inspection by a professional mechanic.
Engine Ticking Vs Knocking
Generally, engine knocking is considered more troublesome than engine ticking noise. Engine knocking signifies a higher extent of damage as compared to the light-clicking noise.
The engine knocking noise can be characterised as a bearing or rod knocking sound which indicates significant engine wear. Such noise when left untreated for a long time can result in severe damage to the engine components necessitating engine repair or replacement.
The engine ticking noise is often caused by a damaged valve lifter. Regardless of the type of noise coming from the engine, such car sounds must never be ignored as they might indicate a potentially severe car issue.
Causes of Engine Ticking Noise
There can be multiple causes of engine ticking noise. Some of them are quite severe and require immediate attention, whereas others can be rectified instantly. The reasons for the ticking noise in the engine are discussed below.
Low oil level
Inadequate lubrication is often one of the causes of engine ticking noise. A low level of oil in the engine can cause engine components to rub over each other resulting in a ticking noise. If the low oil level in the car engine is not maintained timely, it can lead to significant damage to engine components.
Damaged or Worn Lifters
Valve lifters when damaged or worn can lead to loud ticking noise from the engine. The valve lifters are responsible for opening and closing the engine valve as directed by the camshaft. These components often make a ticking noise when they begin to fail or wear.
Improper Valve lash
Valve lash or clearance is the gap between the valve tappet and the rocker’s arm. The valve clearance must be tightly in place. In case, the valve clearance is improper, the valves will not sit properly leading to engine ticking noise, and load on the valves and their components.
Damaged exhaust gasket
A damaged or leaking exhaust gasket is also one of the common causes of engine ticking noise. The noise is generated when pressurised combustion gas travels beyond the gasket’s perforated segments.
Damaged spark plugs
A bad spark plug can also be the reason for the loud ticking noise from the engine. Depending on the intensity of the noise, the damage can be in one or more spark plugs. A damaged spark plug can also be characterised by the following signs:
- Lower fuel economy
- Check engine light illuminated
- Engine noises
- Reduced acceleration
- Engine misfiring
FAQs
Is it safe to drive with a loud ticking noise from the engine?
It is best to avoid using the car if you hear a loud ticking noise from the engine. This is because you are unsure of the cause of the noise and the extent of the damage.
Will using a thicker oil stop the engine ticking noise?
If one or more of the engine lifters are responsible for the engine ticking noise, it can be temporarily muted using a thicker oil. However, it is not the ultimate solution and the ticking noise will resurface soon enough. The only solution to reduce car noises is to get them checked by a professional mechanic.
This is all about the causes behind the engine ticking noise. It is important to know that driving a noisy car, exceeding 95 decibels, in the UAE can get you fined AED 2,000 with a penalty of 12 black points. Make sure to check your black points as 24 black points can get your driving licence suspended.
Despite regular car maintenance, if your car is still posing issues, it is better to switch to another one. You can consider buying any of these used cars for sale in the UAE and have your ideal pick.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading auto blog for more information on car parts and accessories.
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