2013 Dodge Durango Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2013 Dodge Durango Engine and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2013 Dodge Durango 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 or corroded exhaust system component can create 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 2013 Dodge Durango 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.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Dodge Durango?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Dodge Durango is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and longevity. Ignoring this sound can lead to serious complications, as it often indicates underlying problems such as insufficient engine oil or a failing rocker arm roller. These issues, if left unresolved, can escalate into more significant damage, potentially compromising the engine's functionality and safety. Therefore, it is advisable to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the source of the ticking noise as soon as possible. Prompt action not only helps in identifying the root cause but also mitigates the risk of incurring higher repair costs in the future. By prioritizing this issue, you can ensure the reliability of your Dodge Durango and avoid the pitfalls associated with delayed maintenance.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Dodge Durango?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Dodge Durango, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the oil level and quality, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as a malfunctioning drive belt idler pulley, can produce similar noises. An exhaust leak is another culprit that may cause a ticking or tapping sound, particularly noticeable during idling or acceleration. For those with Hemi V8 engines, it's crucial to be aware that while some ticking may be normal, unusual sounds could indicate valvetrain or camshaft issues that require further investigation. Lastly, faulty lifters can also contribute to ticking noises, necessitating a more in-depth repair process. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively diagnose the source of the ticking noise and determine the appropriate course of action.

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