2010 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
12% chance it's the
Exhaust Leak
0%
88% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox engine makes a ticking noise are low oil level or pressure, an issue with the ignition system, or an exhaust leak.
  • Exhaust Leak: A damaged exhaust manifold or a loose connection in the exhaust system can cause an exhaust leak, resulting in increased noise and potential loss of engine power.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox engine makes a ticking noise?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the drive belt tensioner fails, there will be a very audible chirping, grinding, or rattling noise from the front of the engine. This is because the tensioner pulley bearing is no longer smooth, and rotating causes metal to grind at high speeds. If it is not changed immediately, there is a chance it will become dislodged, or allow the drive belt to lose tension, or break. If the belt falls off, the accessory that it drives will no longer function. Also, if the tensioner spring fails, allowing slack in the belt, it may make an extremely loud squeaking or screeching noise combined with a rattle as the tensioner bounces back and forth under load. The squealing noise is the belt slipping on the crankshaft pulley, and will require belt replacement once the belt tensioner is replaced.

An engine leaking oil does not always make a puddle on the ground. A burning smell may be noticed from the front of the vehicle after driving. This is because engine oil leaks may fall onto hot engine components, especially the exhaust manifold, and burn off before making it to the ground. This poses a risk to the engine because the leak going unnoticed may deplete the engine oil reserve, and lead to an oil starvation issue. Some engine oil leaks only occur while the engine is running, so the leak may be larger than the small spot on the ground makes it seem.

Noises can be accompanied by many annoying or worrisome sensations. Consider the noise of grinding brakes, the noise sounds much like the brake pedal and steering wheel feel. This is important, as random noises can be difficult to replicate without knowing when the sound occurs, what must be done to make the sound, and what sound it is. Any professional technician can replicate and diagnose most noises, but to ensure the vehicle is more quickly diagnosed, make sure you tell your technician these three pieces of information.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the potential causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, a systematic diagnostic approach is essential for identifying the root cause. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in noise from engine components. If the oil level is adequate, inspect the lifters, as worn or faulty lifters can produce a ticking sound due to their role in valve movement. Next, examine the timing chain for any signs of wear or looseness, as a compromised timing chain can also contribute to ticking noises. Additionally, consider the possibility of an exhaust leak, which can mimic a ticking sound; inspect the exhaust system for any visible damage or leaks. Lastly, evaluate the fuel quality and ignition timing, as spark knock can lead to similar noises. By following this methodical approach—starting with the simplest checks and progressing to more complex diagnostics—you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and determine the necessary steps for resolution.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, it’s essential to consider several common problems that could be the source of the sound. One of the first things to check is the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing components to tick. Additionally, issues with the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also manifest as ticking noises. An exhaust leak is another frequent culprit, which can create a ticking sound as exhaust gases escape. Furthermore, valve clearance issues may lead to a rattling noise over time, indicating that the engine's valves may need adjustment. It’s also important to pay attention to lifter ticks, as neglecting these sounds can result in more severe engine damage. Given that pinpointing the exact cause of engine ticking can be challenging, a thorough investigation is crucial. By addressing these potential issues promptly, you can effectively resolve the ticking noise and maintain the health of your Equinox's engine.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in my 2010 Chevrolet Equinox's engine?

Addressing the ticking noise in your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox's engine is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's health and performance. Ignoring a lifter tick, a common source of such noises, can lead to more severe engine problems over time. This ticking sound, often the only symptom present, should not be dismissed as a minor inconvenience; it indicates that something is amiss within the engine. If left untreated, the lifter issue can escalate, potentially resulting in significant damage that could compromise the engine's functionality and safety. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly upon hearing this noise to prevent further complications and ensure your Equinox continues to operate smoothly. Taking immediate action not only protects your investment but also enhances your driving experience by maintaining the vehicle's reliability.

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