Hyundai Tucson Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your Hyundai Tucson 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 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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Tucson

When faced with a ticking noise in your Hyundai Tucson, begin your troubleshooting by checking for loose items inside the vehicle, as these can often create unexpected sounds. Next, inspect the area under the car for any debris or objects that may be caught in the tires or undercarriage, which could contribute to the noise. If the sound seems to be coming from under the hood, it’s essential to assess the engine oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to ticking noises due to failing lifters. Additionally, consider the possibility of ignition system issues or an exhaust leak, both of which can manifest as ticking sounds. If the noise is localized near the driver's side fuse door, it may simply be a normal relay noise. However, if you suspect an exhaust leak, particularly at the gasket where it connects to the head, this should be investigated further. Lastly, don’t overlook the potential for heat shield problems, which can cause rattling noises. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, it may be wise to consult a qualified mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

What Could Cause a Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Tucson Engine?

When you hear a ticking noise in your Hyundai Tucson engine, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One frequent culprit is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to insufficient lubrication of engine components, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, failing lifters or issues with the ignition system may also produce similar noises, indicating that the engine is not operating optimally. It's also worth checking for loose items inside the vehicle or foreign objects lodged in the tires, as these can create distracting sounds that mimic engine issues. An exhaust leak is another possibility, as escaping gases can create a ticking noise that may be mistaken for engine trouble. Lastly, over time, tight or loose valves can contribute to a ticking or rattling sound, particularly noticeable at idle. If you suspect any of these issues, a thorough inspection is recommended to ensure your vehicle remains in good working condition.

Why is it Critical to Address Engine Ticking Noise in a Hyundai Tucson?

Addressing engine ticking noise in a Hyundai Tucson is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in ensuring the vehicle's overall health and safety. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe engine damage, which may result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The ticking noise often indicates underlying issues such as low oil levels or failing lifters, which, if left unresolved, can escalate into more significant problems. Moreover, unresolved engine issues can compromise safety while driving, increasing the risk of sudden breakdowns or loss of control, endangering both the driver and passengers. Timely intervention not only preserves the vehicle's performance and longevity but also provides peace of mind, knowing that the car is operating optimally. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize addressing engine ticking noise to avoid potential hazards and maintain the reliability of your Hyundai Tucson.

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