2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Engine and How to Address Them

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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 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, and how should I diagnose them?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, it's essential to adopt a methodical approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Start by listening carefully to the noise; note whether it is constant or varies with engine speed, as this can provide clues about its source. If the check engine light is illuminated, using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes can help pinpoint specific problems. Next, visually inspect accessible components such as the exhaust manifold gasket, idler pulley, and timing chain idler for signs of wear or damage. Regular maintenance checks, including oil changes and filter replacements, should also be performed, as neglecting these can lead to or worsen ticking noises. If the noise persists and you are unable to identify the cause, consulting a professional mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis is advisable, especially if there are indications of serious internal engine issues. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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 prevent vital engine components from receiving adequate lubrication, leading to a ticking sound, particularly from the lifters. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils, can also manifest as a ticking noise. The exhaust system should not be overlooked either; a leak in the exhaust manifold gasket can create a ticking sound under pressure. Noisy hydraulic lifters, often exacerbated by insufficient oil pressure, are another frequent source of this issue, especially noticeable during cold starts. Furthermore, problems with the idler pulley or timing chain idler can contribute to ticking noises as these components wear out over time. Fuel system issues, including malfunctioning fuel injectors, may also produce similar sounds. Lastly, it's worth noting that colder temperatures can lead to temporary ticking noises during startup as the engine warms up. While some of these issues can be addressed through DIY methods, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis to ensure the correct repairs are made.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe is crucial, as it can signal underlying problems that may escalate if left unattended. While some causes, like a loose gasket, might seem minor, they can lead to significant issues such as leaks or increased pressure on engine components. More serious concerns, such as failing cam followers or a malfunctioning fuel pump, can result in catastrophic engine damage, including the risk of disintegration and debris entering the cylinder head. Ignoring these symptoms not only risks costly repairs but can also compromise your vehicle's safety and reliability. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize a professional diagnosis to identify the root cause of the ticking noise and take timely action, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition and preventing further complications down the line.

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