2012 Jeep Liberty Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2012 Jeep Liberty Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2012 Jeep Liberty 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 2012 Jeep Liberty 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 and diagnostic steps for a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 Jeep Liberty?

When addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 Jeep Liberty, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in a ticking sound. If the oil level is adequate, inspect the valve lifters for any signs of wear or damage, as these components can also contribute to the noise. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, which can create similar ticking sounds. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider having the timing chain inspected, as problems here can lead to abnormal engine noises. Lastly, if the ticking persists, it may be indicative of spark knock, which requires a more in-depth diagnosis by a mechanic. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the source of the ticking noise in your Jeep Liberty.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 Jeep Liberty?

When you hear a ticking noise coming from the engine of your 2012 Jeep Liberty, it’s essential to understand the common problems that could be causing this sound. One of the primary culprits is valvetrain issues, which can lead to irregularities in engine performance and should be checked promptly. Additionally, low engine oil levels can create a ticking sound, as insufficient lubrication can cause components to rub against each other. Another frequent cause is a lifter tick, a specific noise that often occurs without accompanying symptoms, indicating that the hydraulic lifters may need attention. Sticky hydraulic components can also contribute to this noise, and while they may not have a straightforward fix, identifying them is crucial. Lastly, don’t overlook the possibility of exhaust system issues, as leaks or damage can produce similar ticking sounds. Addressing these problems early on is vital to prevent more severe engine damage, so if you’re experiencing this issue, consider performing a thorough inspection or consulting a mechanic for a detailed diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 Jeep Liberty?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 Jeep Liberty is of utmost importance due to the potential risks associated with ignoring such symptoms. A ticking sound can be an early warning sign of serious mechanical issues, such as low oil levels or worn components, which, if left unchecked, could lead to catastrophic engine failure. This not only poses a risk to the vehicle's performance but also compromises the safety of the driver and passengers. Furthermore, the longer the issue persists, the more extensive and costly the repairs may become. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action by either checking the oil levels or consulting a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnostic check. By addressing the ticking noise promptly, you can ensure the longevity of your vehicle and maintain safe driving conditions.

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