2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 GMC Sierra 3500 HD 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 GMC Sierra 3500 HD 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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a ticking noise in a 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD engine?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD engine, it's crucial to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the engine oil level, as insufficient oil can lead to increased friction and noise. Next, assess the oil quality; dirty or degraded oil may not lubricate effectively, contributing to engine sounds. As you listen for the source of the noise, try to localize it within the engine, which can help in identifying whether the issue lies in the valve train, timing chain, or other components. Inspect these areas for any loose or damaged parts, as they can often be the culprits behind unusual noises. Additionally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for any trouble codes can provide insights into underlying issues that may not be immediately visible. Finally, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay for any signs of leaks or abnormalities. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take informed action to resolve the issue.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is exhaust leaks, which can create a distinct ticking sound as exhaust gases escape from the system. Additionally, lifter problems are another frequent source of this noise; worn or malfunctioning lifters can lead to irregular engine operation and audible ticking. It's also important to inspect the valve train components, including valve springs and rocker arms, as any wear or damage here can contribute to the noise. Lastly, a misfire in the engine, often linked to the Active Fuel Management system, can produce a ticking sound, typically accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively narrow down the source of the ticking noise and take the necessary steps to restore their vehicle's performance.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 GMC Sierra 3500 HD, it’s crucial to act quickly. This sound often indicates underlying issues, such as poor head lubrication, which can worsen as the engine warms up and oil pressure decreases. Ignoring this symptom may lead to severe engine damage or even complete failure, resulting in costly repairs and safety hazards. The ticking noise is typically more pronounced at idle and when the engine reaches a certain temperature, making it essential to monitor these conditions closely. To safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity, consider having a qualified mechanic inspect the engine to diagnose the source of the noise. Addressing the issue promptly not only helps maintain the smooth operation of your truck but also prevents more significant problems down the line.

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