2017 INFINITI Q70L Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2017 INFINITI Q70L Engine and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
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 2017 INFINITI Q70L 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 2017 INFINITI Q70L 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 potential causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 INFINITI Q70L, and how should I diagnose them?

To effectively diagnose the ticking noise in your 2017 INFINITI Q70L, start with the simplest and most accessible checks. Begin by inspecting the engine oil level; low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in noise from engine components. If the oil level is adequate, examine the valve lifters, as worn lifters can produce a distinct ticking sound and may require replacement. Next, check the fuel injectors for any signs of malfunction, as faulty injectors can also contribute to engine noise. If these components are functioning properly, turn your attention to the timing chain; a loose or worn chain can create a ticking noise that indicates a need for adjustment or replacement. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks, as these can mimic ticking sounds. Finally, don’t overlook the spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can lead to engine noise and should be checked and replaced if necessary. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the source of the ticking noise in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 INFINITI Q70L?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 INFINITI Q70L, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the engine oil level; low oil can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in a noticeable ticking sound. If the oil level is adequate, the next area to investigate is the valve lifters, as worn or damaged lifters can produce a similar noise during operation. Additionally, faulty fuel injectors may contribute to the ticking sound, as they create a rhythmic noise when spraying fuel into the engine. Another potential culprit is a loose or worn timing chain, which can generate a ticking noise as it interacts with the engine's gears. Lastly, an exhaust leak near the engine can also manifest as a ticking sound due to escaping gases. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can identify the source of the noise and determine whether they can address the issue themselves or if professional assistance is needed.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 INFINITI Q70L?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 INFINITI Q70L is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Early detection is crucial, as this noise can indicate underlying issues such as low oil levels, worn components, or valve train problems. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe engine complications, resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, the safety of the vehicle is at stake; a malfunctioning engine can compromise the reliability of your car while driving, posing risks not only to the driver but also to others on the road. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize a professional inspection to accurately diagnose the cause of the ticking noise and implement necessary repairs promptly, ensuring both the longevity of the engine and the safety of the vehicle.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.