2010 Hyundai Azera Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Troubleshooting the Ticking Noise in Your 2010 Hyundai Azera Engine: Causes and Solutions

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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 2010 Hyundai Azera 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 2010 Hyundai Azera 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 could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Hyundai Azera, and how should I diagnose it?

When diagnosing the ticking noise in your 2010 Hyundai Azera, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the engine oil level and ensuring that you are using the correct viscosity, specifically 5W-30, as this can significantly impact engine performance and noise levels. Next, pay attention to when the noise occurs; if it only happens on startup and fades as the engine warms up, this could indicate a timing chain tensioner issue, which is a common problem in Hyundai vehicles. Listening closely can help you determine if the sound is consistent with piston slap, particularly in colder temperatures, or if it might be related to hydraulic valve lifters. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consult any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that Hyundai may have issued regarding similar problems, as they often provide valuable insights and solutions. Should the noise persist, it may be wise to inspect the timing chain tensioner for wear and consider replacing it with an updated version if necessary. If all else fails, seeking a professional mechanic's expertise can provide a definitive diagnosis, ensuring that you address the root cause of the ticking noise effectively.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Hyundai Azera?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Hyundai Azera, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One prevalent issue is valve lifter noise, which arises from improper clearance between the valve lifters and the camshaft, leading to a distinct ticking sound. Another potential culprit is piston slap, often noticeable around the 70,000-mile mark, where play between the piston and connecting rod creates a slapping noise. Additionally, low oil levels or using the incorrect oil type can exacerbate engine noises, making it crucial to check that the oil is at the proper level and meets Hyundai's specifications. Transmission issues, particularly in earlier models, may also contribute to ticking sounds, so verifying the transmission fluid type is advisable. Lastly, a faulty hydraulic timing chain tensioner can produce similar noises, as can other mechanical problems within the engine. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively narrow down the source of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Hyundai Azera?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Hyundai Azera, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for any DIY enthusiast. The nature of the noise can indicate varying levels of severity; for instance, if the sound resembles a light tapping that fades as the engine warms up, it may be linked to hydraulic valve lifters. While this issue is generally not critical, it should not be ignored, as prolonged neglect could lead to more significant engine problems over time. Conversely, if the noise is more pronounced, resembling a knocking sound, it could signal serious issues like piston slap or crankshaft bearing failure, which require immediate attention to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Additionally, using the wrong engine oil viscosity can contribute to ticking noises, particularly in colder climates, making it essential to ensure you are using the recommended oil type. Regular maintenance and timely inspections are vital to identifying and addressing these noises before they escalate into more severe problems, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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Common Causes of Ticking Noise in 2010 Hyundai Azera