Ford Expedition Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your Ford Expedition Engine and How to Address 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 Ford Expedition 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 Ford Expedition 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.

Troubleshooting Ticking Noise in a Ford Expedition

When faced with a ticking noise in your Ford Expedition, begin your troubleshooting by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can often be the simplest explanation for engine noises. If the oil is at an appropriate level, inspect the ignition system, as faulty spark plugs or ignition components can also contribute to ticking sounds. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, which can create similar noises. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider the possibility of a faulty lifter or bent push rod, as these mechanical problems can lead to more persistent ticking. Additionally, be aware that some engine types, like the 3.5L Ecoboost, may produce normal ticking sounds under certain conditions. It’s also wise to check for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) or recalls related to the cam phaser, as these can indicate known issues that require professional attention. Lastly, turning off the AC and listening for changes in the noise can help isolate the source, as the AC compressor can sometimes be a contributing factor. By following this systematic approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the ticking noise in your Ford Expedition.

Diagnosing Engine Ticking Noise in a Ford Expedition

When diagnosing engine ticking noises in a Ford Expedition, it's essential to consider a variety of common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to insufficient lubrication and result in ticking sounds. Additionally, issues within the ignition system may contribute to this noise, as can exhaust leaks that allow escaping gases to create a ticking effect. It's also important to inspect the drive belt idler pulley, as a failure here can produce a distinct chirping noise. Beyond these mechanical concerns, it's worth checking for loose items inside the vehicle or foreign objects lodged under the car, as these can mimic engine noises. Under the hood, failing lifters or low oil pressure can exacerbate ticking sounds, while camshaft wear may also be a factor. Lastly, rattling noises from heat shields should not be overlooked, as they can create misleading sounds that may be mistaken for engine issues. By systematically evaluating these potential problems, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the source of the ticking noise in their Ford Expedition.

Why is a Ticking Noise in a Ford Expedition Engine a Cause for Concern?

A ticking noise in your Ford Expedition engine should not be ignored, as it can signal serious underlying problems that may escalate if left unaddressed. Low oil levels or pressure can lead to inadequate lubrication, increasing friction among engine components and risking significant damage over time. Additionally, issues with the ignition system can disrupt the combustion process, resulting in irregular engine sounds and diminished performance. An exhaust leak poses not only a threat to engine efficiency but also a safety risk due to the potential release of harmful gases. Furthermore, a lifter tick, often indicative of deeper engine issues, can worsen if not promptly resolved, leading to costly repairs. Lastly, chain tensioner problems in the 5.4L engines are notorious for causing ticking noises and can result in severe engine damage if neglected. Therefore, addressing any ticking noise immediately is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety, ultimately saving you from more extensive repairs down the line.

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Ford Expedition Engine Making Ticking Noise