2014 Chevrolet Traverse Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Troubleshooting the Ticking Noise in Your 2014 Chevrolet Traverse Engine: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2014 Chevrolet Traverse 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 2014 Chevrolet Traverse 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 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, and what diagnostic steps should be taken?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication of engine components, resulting in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, inspect the lifters, as worn or faulty lifters can disrupt valve clearance and create noise. Next, examine the timing chain; a loose or worn chain may produce a ticking sound as it interacts with the gears. Additionally, consider the possibility of an exhaust leak, which can mimic a ticking noise near the engine. Lastly, evaluate for spark knock, often caused by incorrect fuel octane or ignition system issues, which can also lead to ticking. By performing a visual inspection, listening closely to pinpoint the noise, and checking for any diagnostic trouble codes with an OBD-II scanner, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes. If these steps do not reveal the source of the problem, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the issue but also ensures that simpler fixes are addressed before moving on to more complex diagnostics.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to inadequate lubrication and cause engine components to rub together, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, worn valve lifters may also contribute to this noise, as they can become damaged over time and fail to operate smoothly. Another potential source of the ticking could be an exhaust leak, which often manifests as a ticking sound, particularly noticeable when the engine is running. Furthermore, issues with the timing chain, such as wear or slack, can produce similar ticking noises, indicating a need for immediate attention. Lastly, spark knock, caused by premature ignition of the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders, can also create a ticking or pinging sound. For those looking to tackle this issue themselves, it's essential to check the oil level, inspect the valve lifters, and listen for any exhaust leaks or timing chain problems. However, if the source of the noise remains elusive, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to prevent further engine damage.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's overall health and safety. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe engine damage, which may result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The ticking sound often indicates underlying issues such as low oil levels, worn-out components, or valve problems that require immediate attention. By investigating the source of the noise promptly, you can prevent further complications that could compromise the vehicle's performance and safety. Therefore, if you notice a ticking noise, it is essential to act quickly to diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your Traverse remains reliable and safe on the road.

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