2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Ticking Noises in 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD Engine Explained and Resolved

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD 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 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD 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 idler pulley fails, there will be a very audible chirping noise from the front of the engine. This is because the idler 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 slip off. If the belt falls off, the accessory that it drives will no longer function. For instance, if the alternator belt idler pulley fails, the alternator may stop functioning. Also if the pulley begins to wobble, allowing slack in the belt, it will make an extremely loud squeaking or screeching noise, especially on cold starts. This is the belt slipping on the crankshaft pulley, and will require belt replacement once the idler pulley is replaced.

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 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD, a systematic diagnostic approach is essential for identifying the root cause. Start by listening carefully to pinpoint the noise's location and timing, which can help narrow down potential sources. Next, perform a visual inspection of the engine components, focusing on areas where the noise is most pronounced. Check the engine oil level and quality, as low or dirty oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and increased noise. Additionally, inspect the valve train components, such as lifters and rocker arms, for signs of wear. Don’t overlook the exhaust system; an exhaust leak can also produce a ticking sound, so examine it for any damage. If the noise persists, use an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes that may indicate specific issues. If these steps do not reveal the problem, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable, as they can provide a thorough diagnosis and recommend necessary repairs. By following this structured approach, you can effectively address the ticking noise and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD?

When diagnosing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD, it's essential to explore several common problems that may be causing this issue. A low oil level is often a primary suspect, as insufficient lubrication can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, if the vehicle has not undergone regular oil changes, the oil can become contaminated and less effective, exacerbating the noise. Worn valve lifters are another frequent cause; as these components deteriorate, they can produce a distinct ticking sound during engine operation. An exhaust leak may also be responsible, particularly noticeable during acceleration when escaping gases create a ticking-like noise. Lastly, issues with the timing chain, such as wear or improper tension, can contribute to similar sounds. To accurately pinpoint the source of the ticking noise and ensure appropriate repairs, consulting a qualified mechanic is highly recommended, as they can conduct a comprehensive inspection of the engine.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. Early detection of such noises can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems that may lead to costly repairs or even engine failure. Common causes of a ticking noise include low oil levels, worn-out components, or valve train issues, all of which can compromise the engine's integrity if left unchecked. Ignoring these symptoms not only risks further damage but also poses safety concerns for the driver and passengers, as engine malfunctions can affect the vehicle's reliability. For those considering a DIY approach, it is advisable to start by checking the oil level and quality, as well as inspecting for any visible wear on engine components. However, if the source of the noise remains unclear, consulting a qualified mechanic is essential to accurately diagnose and address the issue before it leads to more significant complications. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your investment but also ensures a safer driving experience.

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Diagnosing Ticking Noise in 2016 Chevrolet Suburban