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.
When faced with a ticking noise in your Dodge Durango, start your diagnostic process by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can often be the simplest and most common cause of engine ticking. If the oil level is adequate, inspect the ignition system for any signs of wear or malfunction, as issues here can also contribute to unusual sounds. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, particularly around the exhaust gasket, since these can mimic lifter ticks. If the ticking persists, focus on the drive belt idler pulley, as a failing pulley can produce a chirping noise that may be mistaken for engine ticking. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider the possibility of noisy lash adjusters or lifters, which may require cleaning or replacement. Throughout this process, it’s crucial to remain attentive to the nature of the noise and any changes as you perform these checks, as this can provide valuable clues to the underlying problem. If you find yourself uncertain at any stage, consulting a qualified mechanic can ensure that you address the issue effectively and safely.
When faced with a ticking noise in your Dodge Durango engine, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing components to make noise. Additionally, issues with the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also manifest as ticking sounds. Another potential culprit is an exhaust leak, which can create a ticking noise that may be mistaken for other issues. In some cases, a lifter tick may occur, particularly in Hemi engines, which is often harmless but should still be monitored. It's also worth noting that the injectors in Hemi engines can be quite loud, contributing to the overall noise. Lastly, exhaust manifolds may produce ticking sounds, especially when the engine is cold, but this noise often diminishes as the engine warms up. By systematically checking these areas, you can better identify the source of the ticking noise and determine whether it requires further investigation or repair.
When your Dodge Durango engine starts making a ticking noise, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety risks and costly repairs. Ignoring this symptom could lead to more severe engine problems, such as damage to the lifters or exhaust components. Common causes of a ticking noise include low oil levels or pressure, which can lead to inadequate lubrication and increased wear on engine parts. Additionally, issues with the ignition system or an exhaust leak can also manifest as ticking sounds. It’s important to differentiate between harmless ticks, such as those sometimes found in Hemi engines, and more serious concerns like a lifter tick or exhaust gasket failure. To accurately diagnose the source of the noise, consider using a stethoscope or a long screwdriver to listen closely to the engine, focusing on areas like the injectors and exhaust manifolds. By taking these steps, you can ensure that any underlying issues are addressed before they escalate, safeguarding both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.
See what others are asking about their Dodge Durango. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
Read about related problems experienced by other Dodge Durango drivers like you.