Hyundai Ioniq Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

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

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
12% chance it's the
Exhaust Leak
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88% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Hyundai Ioniq 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 Hyundai Ioniq 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.

Troubleshooting Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Ioniq

When faced with a ticking noise in your Hyundai Ioniq, begin your troubleshooting by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to engine noise. Ensure the engine is off and cool before checking the dipstick for the correct oil level. If the oil is low, top it up with the recommended type. Next, inspect the ignition system; faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can create ticking sounds, so examine these components for wear or damage. If the noise persists, consider the possibility of an exhaust leak, which can often be identified by a hissing sound near the exhaust manifold. Additionally, check the charger port assembly for any signs of wear or loose connections, as this can sometimes cause vibrations that mimic ticking. Lastly, if your air conditioning is on, listen for any clicking related to the internal air diversion flap, which can occur under certain humidity conditions. If these checks do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis to prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Diagnosing Engine Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Ioniq

When diagnosing an engine ticking noise in your Hyundai Ioniq, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to insufficient lubrication of critical engine components like valves and lifters, resulting in a noticeable ticking sound. Additionally, issues within the ignition system may also manifest as a ticking noise, indicating a need for inspection. An exhaust leak is another potential source of the sound, as escaping gases can create a ticking effect. If you've recently performed a battery coolant flush, be aware that this may lead to clicking noises, suggesting a possible cooling system issue. Furthermore, the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in the Ioniq is known to produce ticking sounds due to its cam-driven design. Lastly, the internal air diversion flap can create clicking noises, particularly when activated under high humidity conditions. While these insights can help you narrow down the cause of the ticking noise, consulting a qualified mechanic or Hyundai service center is advisable for a thorough diagnosis and resolution.

Why is it Urgent to Address a Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Ioniq?

Addressing a ticking noise in your Hyundai Ioniq is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical step in maintaining the health and safety of your vehicle. This noise can be indicative of serious underlying problems, such as low oil levels or pressure, which can lead to engine damage if left unchecked. Additionally, issues with the ignition system or exhaust leaks can escalate quickly, resulting in costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. Ignoring a ticking sound may also signal a failing drive belt idler pulley, which can produce a noticeable chirping noise and compromise the engine's functionality. Furthermore, components like the air diversion flap may require immediate attention to prevent further damage. By addressing these symptoms promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also enhance your safety on the road, making it essential for any DIY enthusiast to take action at the first sign of trouble.

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Hyundai Ioniq Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs