2013 Lexus ES350 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Troubleshooting the Ticking Noise in Your 2013 Lexus ES350 Engine: Common Causes and Solutions

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 2013 Lexus ES350 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 or corroded exhaust system component can create 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 2013 Lexus ES350 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.

How to diagnose a ticking noise in a 2013 Lexus ES350 engine?

To effectively diagnose a ticking noise in your 2013 Lexus ES350 engine, begin by checking the oil level and pressure, as low oil can often be the culprit behind such sounds. Ensure that your engine has adequate oil, as this is crucial for proper lubrication and function. Next, inspect the ignition system, as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can also produce ticking noises. Pay attention to any exhaust leaks, which can create similar sounds; a visual inspection of the exhaust manifold and connections can help identify any issues. Additionally, take note of when the ticking occurs—whether during acceleration, idling, or at specific speeds—as this information can be invaluable in narrowing down the source of the problem. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, or if you feel uncertain about your findings, it is wise to consult a professional mechanic who can provide a thorough diagnosis and ensure your vehicle is safe and running smoothly. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the ticking noise and determine the best course of action.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Lexus ES350?

When you hear a ticking noise coming from the engine of your 2013 Lexus ES350, it’s essential to understand the various common causes that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. Additionally, issues with the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition components, can also manifest as ticking noises. An exhaust leak is another potential source, as escaping gases can create audible sounds. Furthermore, a maladjusted valve train or slack in the timing chain due to worn guides can contribute to these noises, indicating a need for immediate attention to prevent further engine damage. A weak battery may also produce clicking sounds, particularly when starting the vehicle, while a damaged engine fan or loose parts within the fan assembly can create similar ticking or tapping noises. To effectively address these issues, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of these components, as identifying the specific cause will help you implement the right repairs and maintain your vehicle’s performance.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Lexus ES350?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Lexus ES350 is of utmost urgency, as neglecting this symptom can lead to severe and costly consequences. The ticking sound, often indicative of underlying issues such as low oil levels, ignition system malfunctions, or exhaust leaks, should not be dismissed as a minor annoyance. If left unaddressed, these problems can escalate, potentially resulting in engine failure that requires extensive repairs or even complete engine replacement. The longer you wait to investigate the source of the noise, the greater the risk of incurring significant damage, which can compromise both the safety and performance of your vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action to diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your Lexus ES350.

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.

2013 Lexus ES350 Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Solutions