1999 Hyundai Tiburon Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 1999 Hyundai Tiburon Engine and How to Resolve 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 1999 Hyundai Tiburon 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 1999 Hyundai Tiburon 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.

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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a ticking noise in the engine of a 1999 Hyundai Tiburon?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 1999 Hyundai Tiburon's engine, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the oil level and its condition, as low or dirty oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing ticking sounds. Next, inspect the oil filter to ensure it’s an OEM part, as non-OEM filters may not maintain proper oil pressure. Look for any signs of oil leaks, which could indicate a more serious issue if the oil level drops consistently. Pay attention to the hydraulic lifters, as they can become noisy if they lack adequate oil pressure or are worn out. Additionally, examine the valve train components, as a ticking noise that correlates with engine RPM may suggest wear or malfunction in these parts. Don’t overlook the exhaust manifold gasket, as leaks here can also produce ticking sounds. As you monitor the noise, note how it changes with engine load and RPM, which can provide further clues about the source of the issue. If these initial checks do not resolve the problem, consider using diagnostic tools to pinpoint the noise's origin, and if necessary, consult a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair estimate. This step-by-step approach will help you effectively diagnose and address the ticking noise in your engine.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 1999 Hyundai Tiburon?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 1999 Hyundai Tiburon, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is valve train issues, where components like lifters and cam lobes may not be adequately lubricated, especially during cold starts. This can lead to a temporary ticking sound until the engine warms up. Additionally, problems with the timing chain or belt, such as wear or looseness, can also contribute to this noise, particularly in the 2.0L, 1.6L, or 1.5L engines. Oil-related issues are another significant factor; low oil levels or pressure can cause lifters to starve for oil, resulting in ticking sounds. It's crucial to check the oil level and ensure you're using the right type of oil and a quality filter to maintain proper lubrication. Furthermore, ticking can stem from ignition system problems or exhaust leaks, which can create similar sounds. In more severe cases, issues with piston wrist pins or rod bearings may be indicated by a worsening noise during acceleration, suggesting the need for more extensive repairs. Cold weather can exacerbate these noises due to the viscosity of the oil, but they typically subside as the engine warms. Lastly, adopting good maintenance practices, such as allowing the engine to idle briefly after a cold start and avoiding high RPMs while ticking is present, can help mitigate further damage. If the noise persists, consulting a mechanic for a thorough inspection is advisable to pinpoint the exact cause.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 1999 Hyundai Tiburon?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 1999 Hyundai Tiburon is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and longevity. The urgency of this issue largely depends on its underlying cause. For instance, a low oil level or pressure can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not resolved immediately, as running the engine under these conditions risks severe failures in critical components like pistons and valves. Similarly, problems with the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can diminish engine performance and fuel efficiency, necessitating prompt attention to avoid escalating issues. Loose timing chains and guides are another serious concern; if these components fail, the resulting damage can be extensive and costly. While an exhaust leak may not pose an immediate threat, it still warrants timely repair to prevent further complications and safety hazards. Other potential causes, including issues with the knock sensor or catalytic converter, also require swift diagnosis and resolution to safeguard against long-term damage. In summary, it is imperative to diagnose and address the ticking noise as soon as possible to ensure the reliability and safety of your 1999 Hyundai Tiburon.

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1999 Hyundai Tiburon Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs