2014 GMC Terrain Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2014 GMC Terrain 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 Terrain 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 Terrain 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.

What are the potential causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 GMC Terrain, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 GMC Terrain, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to pinpoint the issue effectively. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can often lead to ticking sounds. Ensure the oil is at the recommended level, as this is a straightforward fix that can save you from more significant problems. Next, listen closely to the noise while the engine is running; if the ticking correlates with engine speed, it may indicate a lifter tick, which is a common issue. If the noise persists despite adequate oil levels and does not seem to be related to the lifters, it may be time to consider other mechanical issues within the engine. In such cases, if you're not comfortable with further diagnostics or repairs, consulting a mechanic is advisable to avoid potential damage. By following this step-by-step approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the ticking noise and take appropriate action.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 GMC Terrain?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 GMC Terrain, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to prevent potential damage. One of the most frequent culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can hinder proper lubrication of engine components, particularly the valves. This lack of lubrication can create a ticking sound as parts rub against each other. Additionally, problems within the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also manifest as a ticking noise, indicating that the engine is misfiring or not operating efficiently. Another possibility is an exhaust leak, which can produce a ticking sound as exhaust gases escape from the exhaust manifold. To effectively address these issues, start by checking your oil level and pressure, inspecting the ignition system for any faults, and examining the exhaust system for leaks. By taking these steps, you can diagnose the problem and determine whether a simple fix or a more extensive repair is necessary.

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

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 GMC Terrain, it’s crucial to assess the situation with urgency. This sound can be more than just an annoyance; it may signal underlying issues that could lead to significant damage if left unchecked. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to determine if the ticking is accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of power, rough idling, or engine misfires, which could indicate a serious problem requiring immediate professional intervention. Regular maintenance is key to preventing minor issues from escalating, so if the noise persists, it’s wise to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a mechanic. Ignoring these sounds can compromise your vehicle's safety and reliability, making it essential to address any unusual noises promptly. By taking action early, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your GMC Terrain remains in optimal condition.

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