2023 Lexus RC350 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2023 Lexus RC350 Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2023 Lexus RC350 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 2023 Lexus RC350 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 could be causing the ticking noise in my 2023 Lexus RC350, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2023 Lexus RC350, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the engine oil levels, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, resulting in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, proceed to inspect the valve train components, including lifters and valves, for any signs of wear or misalignment. Next, examine the exhaust system for potential leaks, as escaping gases can create a ticking noise. Finally, pay attention to the conditions under which the noise occurs, as this can help you pinpoint its source. By following this methodical process, you can narrow down the possible causes and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2023 Lexus RC350?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2023 Lexus RC350, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in that distinctive ticking sound. Additionally, worn valve lifters may contribute to the noise as they fail to operate smoothly over time. Another potential source is faulty fuel injectors, which can create a ticking sound during their operation. It's also worth checking for loose belts or pulleys, as these can vibrate and produce noise while the engine runs. Lastly, an exhaust leak can manifest as a ticking noise due to escaping gases. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the health of your engine and prevent further damage.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2023 Lexus RC350?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2023 Lexus RC350, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe consequences, including significant engine damage that may require costly repairs. Early detection is key; by addressing the noise promptly, you can prevent further deterioration of engine components, ensuring that your vehicle remains in optimal condition. Additionally, neglecting unusual sounds can pose safety risks while driving, as underlying issues may worsen and lead to unexpected breakdowns. For DIY enthusiasts, taking immediate action not only helps maintain the performance of your vehicle but also allows you to potentially identify and resolve the issue before it escalates. Furthermore, if the problem is covered under warranty, timely intervention could save you from incurring repair costs. Therefore, it is advisable to inspect the engine as soon as possible, either by consulting a qualified mechanic or utilizing your own troubleshooting skills, to safeguard the longevity and reliability of your Lexus RC350.

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