2020 Honda Accord Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2020 Honda Accord 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 2020 Honda Accord 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 2020 Honda Accord 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 2020 Honda Accord, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2020 Honda Accord, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by listening carefully to the noise, noting when it occurs—whether during acceleration, idling, or deceleration—as this can provide clues about its source. Next, check the engine oil level; low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, resulting in noise from engine components. If the oil level is fine, inspect the valve train components, such as lifters and rockers, for signs of wear or damage, as these can also contribute to ticking sounds. Additionally, examine the timing chain and tensioner for any slack or wear, as a malfunction here can produce similar noises. If you suspect spark knock, ensure you are using the correct fuel grade and that the ignition timing is set properly. Lastly, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks, as these can sometimes mimic engine ticking. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the ticking noise in your Honda Accord, potentially saving on costly repairs.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Honda Accord?

If you're hearing a ticking noise from the engine of your 2020 Honda Accord, it's crucial to identify the underlying cause to address it effectively. One common issue could be low engine oil, which can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in components making contact, producing a ticking sound. Another possibility is valve train problems, where worn lifters or valves may create similar noises as they fail to operate smoothly. Additionally, a loose or worn timing belt or chain can generate ticking as it interacts with the engine's gears. Spark knock, caused by improper ignition timing of the air-fuel mixture, can also manifest as a ticking or pinging noise. Lastly, an exhaust leak may be the culprit, allowing gases to escape and create a ticking sound. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and potentially resolved by a DIY enthusiast, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection to ensure accurate diagnosis and repair.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Honda Accord?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Honda Accord is of utmost urgency, as ignoring this issue can lead to significant damage and safety risks. Unusual engine noises often indicate underlying problems that, if left unchecked, could escalate into costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Common causes of a ticking noise include low oil levels, which can lead to inadequate lubrication of engine components, or worn-out parts such as valves or lifters that may require immediate attention. Furthermore, if your vehicle is still under warranty, delaying repairs could jeopardize your coverage, complicating future claims. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize a diagnostic check by a professional mechanic to accurately identify the source of the noise and ensure the longevity and safe operation of your Honda Accord.

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