2007 Hyundai Elantra Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2007 Hyundai Elantra Engine and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2007 Hyundai Elantra 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 2007 Hyundai Elantra 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.

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 2007 Hyundai Elantra, and how should I diagnose it?

To effectively diagnose the ticking noise in your 2007 Hyundai Elantra, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by checking the oil level and ensuring it is of the correct viscosity, as low oil levels or incorrect oil can lead to increased engine noise. If the oil appears dirty or is due for a change, consider replacing it with the recommended 5W-30 oil and a genuine Hyundai oil filter. Next, listen closely to the noise using a stethoscope or a similar tool to pinpoint its origin; this can help you determine whether the sound is emanating from the hydraulic lifters, timing chain area, or another component. If the noise seems to be coming from the timing chain, inspect the hydraulic timing chain tensioner for any signs of malfunction, as a faulty tensioner can contribute to ticking sounds. Additionally, check the purge control solenoid valve, as a malfunctioning valve can also produce a clicking noise. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be wise to consult a mechanic or a Hyundai dealership for a more thorough diagnosis, as they can perform specialized tests to identify the root cause of the noise. By following this structured approach, you can systematically narrow down the potential causes and take appropriate action to address the ticking noise in your engine.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2007 Hyundai Elantra?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2007 Hyundai Elantra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One prevalent issue is piston slap, which occurs when there is excessive clearance between the piston and the connecting rod, often noticeable when the engine is cold. Another potential culprit is a malfunctioning hydraulic timing chain tensioner, which is vital for maintaining the correct tension on the timing chain; any failure here can lead to unwanted noise. Additionally, worn crankshaft or camshaft bearings can produce similar ticking or knocking sounds, as these components are crucial for smooth engine operation. It's also important to check the oil filter and oil quality, as using a low-quality filter or incorrect oil type can exacerbate engine noise. For instance, switching to a genuine Hyundai oil filter or ensuring the correct oil viscosity can make a significant difference. Lastly, while less common, issues with hydraulic valve lash adjusters may cause a slight ticking at startup, which should subside shortly after. By systematically evaluating these factors, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and address the ticking noise in their Elantra's engine.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2007 Hyundai Elantra?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2007 Hyundai Elantra, it's essential to assess the urgency of the situation based on the potential underlying causes. If the noise stems from internal engine issues such as piston slap or lifter problems, immediate attention is crucial to prevent severe damage and costly repairs. On the other hand, if the ticking is related to oil maintenance—like using the wrong oil type or a clogged filter—this can typically be addressed during your next oil change, although it should not be ignored. Additionally, if the noise originates from external components such as the purge control solenoid valve or timing chain tensioner, while these issues may not pose an immediate risk, they should still be resolved to maintain your vehicle's overall health. To effectively diagnose the problem, consider using a stethoscope to pinpoint the noise's source, and if necessary, consult a mechanic for a thorough evaluation. Addressing these noises promptly not only ensures the longevity of your engine but also enhances your vehicle's performance and safety.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.