2014 Hyundai Tucson Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2014 Hyundai Tucson 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
0%
88% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 Hyundai Tucson 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 or corroded exhaust system component can create 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 2014 Hyundai Tucson 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 are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Hyundai Tucson?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2014 Hyundai Tucson, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to prevent further damage. One of the most frequent culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to inadequate lubrication of engine components. Additionally, issues with the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs, can create irregular engine performance and contribute to ticking sounds. An exhaust leak may also be responsible, as escaping gases can produce a distinct ticking noise. Furthermore, problems within the engine itself, like a misfire, can manifest as a ticking sound, indicating that the engine is not firing correctly. Transmission issues, including low fluid levels or a worn-out clutch, can also produce similar noises. Lastly, lifter problems, such as a bad lifter or oil deposits, along with valvetrain noise due to increased clearances, can lead to ticking sounds. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining the health of your vehicle and ensuring a smooth driving experience.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Hyundai Tucson?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Hyundai Tucson, it's crucial to adopt a systematic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in ticking sounds. If the oil level is adequate, inspect the ignition system for any faults, as issues here can also manifest as engine noise. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, which can create a ticking sound due to escaping gases. If these simpler checks do not resolve the issue, consider more complex mechanical problems such as a faulty lifter or a bent push rod, which may require professional assessment. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically eliminate potential causes and address the ticking noise before it leads to more significant engine damage.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Hyundai Tucson?

When it comes to addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2014 Hyundai Tucson, the urgency cannot be overstated. Ignoring this symptom can lead to serious consequences, including significant engine damage and safety risks. A common culprit for such noises is low oil level or pressure, which can cause inadequate lubrication of engine components, leading to wear and tear. If you notice a ticking sound, it’s essential to check your oil levels immediately and top up if necessary. Additionally, issues with the ignition system can also manifest as a ticking noise, and neglecting these problems can result in poor engine performance or even complete engine failure. Furthermore, an exhaust leak not only affects engine efficiency but can also pose safety hazards due to the potential release of harmful gases. Therefore, whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a novice, addressing any unusual engine noises promptly is crucial to maintaining the reliability and safety of your vehicle. Taking action sooner rather than later can save you from costly repairs and ensure your Hyundai Tucson remains in optimal condition.

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2014 Hyundai Tucson Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs