2014 Ford Fusion Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2014 Ford Fusion 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 2014 Ford Fusion 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 Ford Fusion 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 Ford Fusion, and how should I diagnose them?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Ford Fusion, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by inspecting the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, proceed to examine the valve lifters, as worn components may require replacement. Next, check for any exhaust leaks, which can also produce a ticking noise; a visual inspection of the exhaust system can help identify any damage. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider the timing chain tensioner, as a malfunction here can contribute to the noise. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs for wear, as faulty plugs can create similar sounds. Lastly, ensure that heat shields around the exhaust are secure, as loose or damaged shields can also be a source of ticking. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes and take appropriate action to resolve the ticking noise in your vehicle.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Ford Fusion?

When diagnosing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Ford Fusion, it's essential to explore several common problems that could be causing the issue. One significant factor to consider is low engine oil, as insufficient lubrication can lead to a noticeable ticking sound. Regularly checking both the oil level and its quality is vital to prevent this problem. Worn valve lifters are another potential source of the noise; if these components are damaged, they may require inspection or replacement to restore proper function. Additionally, an exhaust leak can produce similar ticking sounds, making it important to examine the exhaust system for any signs of damage or leaks. The timing chain tensioner is also a critical component that, if faulty, can contribute to engine ticking; inspecting this part is necessary to ensure it operates correctly. Lastly, spark knock, or pre-ignition, can manifest as a ticking noise, often related to using the wrong fuel octane rating. By understanding these common issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and address the ticking noise in their Ford Fusion's engine, potentially saving time and repair costs.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Ford Fusion?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 Ford Fusion, it’s crucial to assess the situation with urgency. Ignoring this sound can lead to severe consequences, including engine damage or safety hazards. Common causes of ticking noises include low oil levels or inadequate lubrication, which can quickly escalate into more significant issues if not addressed. For DIY enthusiasts, early detection is key; investigating the source of the noise can save you from costly repairs down the line. If the ticking is accompanied by rattling sounds, it’s even more critical to take action, as this could indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. Regular maintenance and prompt investigation of unusual sounds not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also ensure your safety on the road. Therefore, if you encounter a ticking noise, don’t delay in diagnosing the issue to maintain the longevity and reliability of your Ford Fusion.

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