2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Resolve Ticking Noises in Your 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport

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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 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport 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 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport 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 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport, and how should I diagnose them?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport, 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 inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, inspect the valve lifters for wear, as these components can deteriorate over time and may need replacement. Next, examine the exhaust system for any leaks, as an exhaust leak can also produce a ticking noise. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, turn your attention to the timing chain tensioner, which can fail and cause similar sounds. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs for wear and ensure the fuel injectors are functioning correctly, as both can contribute to engine noise. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and determine the necessary steps for resolution. If you encounter any uncertainties during your inspection, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure accurate diagnosis and repair.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

When diagnosing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport, it's essential to explore several common problems that may be causing the issue. Low engine oil is often a primary suspect, as insufficient lubrication can lead to ticking sounds; therefore, regularly checking the oil level and its condition is vital. Worn valve lifters can also produce noticeable ticking noises, which may require inspection and potential replacement. Additionally, an exhaust leak can mimic these sounds, so it's wise to examine the exhaust system for any signs of damage. Timing chain issues, particularly with the tensioner, can contribute to ticking noises, making a thorough inspection of this system necessary. Lastly, spark knock, or detonation, can arise from using the incorrect fuel octane rating, leading to unwanted ticking sounds. While some of these issues may be manageable through DIY methods, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for an accurate diagnosis and effective resolution.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

Addressing the ticking noise in your 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport is crucial for maintaining both the vehicle's performance and your safety on the road. Ignoring this symptom can lead to significant engine damage, which may result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely action. Early detection of the noise allows for a thorough inspection, potentially identifying minor issues before they escalate into major problems. Moreover, unusual engine sounds can indicate underlying mechanical failures that, if left unaddressed, could compromise your vehicle's reliability and safety, increasing the risk of breakdowns or accidents while driving. If your vehicle is still under warranty, prompt attention to this issue is also advisable, as delays might affect your coverage for necessary repairs. Ultimately, seeking a professional mechanic's evaluation not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that any necessary maintenance is performed, safeguarding the longevity and performance of your Land Rover.

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2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport Engine Ticking Noise Guide