Kia Telluride Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your Kia Telluride 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 Kia Telluride 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 Kia Telluride 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 Engine Ticking Noise in a Kia Telluride

When faced with a ticking noise in your Kia Telluride's engine, start by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and cause ticking sounds. If the oil level is fine, inspect the ignition system for any faults, as misfires can also produce similar noises. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, which can create ticking sounds, especially noticeable during acceleration. Weather conditions can affect engine performance, so consider whether the noise is more pronounced after a cold start. If the ticking changes with engine revs, it may indicate an issue with an accessory component. Additionally, ensure your battery is in good condition, as a weak battery can lead to clicking noises. If these checks do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to investigate more complex problems such as timing chain tensioners or transmission noise. Always remember that if the problem persists, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a thorough diagnosis.

Diagnosing Engine Ticking Noise in a Kia Telluride

When diagnosing engine ticking noise in a Kia Telluride, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to insufficient lubrication of engine components, resulting in a ticking sound. Regularly checking and maintaining the proper oil level is crucial for engine health. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also manifest as ticking noises. A thorough inspection of these components can help pinpoint the source of the problem. Another potential cause is an exhaust leak, which can create a ticking sound as exhaust gases escape from the system. Inspecting the exhaust manifold and connections for any signs of leaks is a vital step in the diagnostic process. Lastly, it's important to consider external factors, such as weather conditions, which can exacerbate engine noises. By systematically evaluating these common issues, Kia Telluride owners can effectively troubleshoot and address engine ticking noises, ensuring their vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently.

Why is it Urgent to Address a Ticking Noise in a Kia Telluride Engine?

Addressing a ticking noise in your Kia Telluride engine is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the health and safety of your vehicle. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe consequences, including significant engine damage that may result from low oil levels or pressure, which can affect vital components like valves and lifters. Additionally, the ticking could indicate issues with the ignition system, exhaust leaks, or damaged injectors, all of which require immediate attention to prevent further complications. The urgency is heightened by the potential safety risks associated with unresolved engine problems, which can compromise your vehicle's performance and lead to dangerous breakdowns. Moreover, if the ticking noise stems from a manufacturing defect, addressing it quickly may allow you to take advantage of warranty coverage for necessary repairs. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve any ticking noises promptly to ensure your Kia Telluride operates smoothly and safely.

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