Mitsubishi Expo LRV Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your Mitsubishi Expo LRV Engine and How to Resolve 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 Mitsubishi Expo LRV 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 Mitsubishi Expo LRV 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.

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 Ticking Noise in a Mitsubishi Expo LRV

When faced with a ticking noise in your Mitsubishi Expo LRV, begin your diagnostic journey by checking for loose items inside the vehicle, as these can often create unexpected sounds. Next, inspect the undercarriage for any debris lodged in the tires or components, which could also be the culprit. If the noise seems to originate from under the hood, pay close attention to the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to ticking sounds due to failing lifters. Additionally, examine the ignition system and look for any signs of exhaust leaks, as these are common issues that can contribute to engine noise. If you hear clicking sounds from the dashboard during startup, this may indicate that the MFI and fuel pump relays are engaging, which is normal but worth noting. Lastly, inspect the pulleys and timing belt for wear, as these components can also produce ticking noises if they are not functioning properly. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively narrow down the source of the ticking noise and determine whether a simple fix is possible or if professional assistance is needed.

What Could Cause a Ticking Noise in a Mitsubishi Expo LRV Engine?

When faced with a ticking noise in your Mitsubishi Expo LRV engine, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be the source of the sound. One of the primary culprits is valve train issues, which may arise from worn lifters, valves, or camshaft components, leading to irregular engine performance. Additionally, low oil levels or the use of poor-quality oil can significantly impact lubrication, resulting in increased friction and the characteristic ticking sound. Another factor to investigate is the timing belt tension; if it is not adequately tensioned, it can create noise as it interacts with the pulleys. Exhaust leaks, particularly those near the engine, can also manifest as ticking noises, indicating a potential issue in the exhaust system. Furthermore, spark knock, caused by improper fuel combustion, can produce a similar sound, signaling a need for fuel quality assessment. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of loose or damaged components, such as heat shields or belts, which can contribute to the ticking noise. By systematically checking these areas, you can better diagnose the issue and determine whether a simple fix is within your DIY capabilities or if professional assistance is required.

Why is There a Ticking Noise in the Engine of a Mitsubishi Expo LRV?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your Mitsubishi Expo LRV, it’s crucial to act quickly, as this sound can indicate underlying issues that may escalate if left unaddressed. Low oil pressure or insufficient oil levels can lead to metal components making contact, resulting in damaging wear and tear. Additionally, worn-out spark plugs can contribute to this noise, signaling a need for replacement. Exhaust leaks are another common culprit, which not only create ticking sounds but can also affect engine performance and emissions. If you’ve recently switched to a thicker oil, such as 20w50, be aware that it may exacerbate valve train noise, particularly at startup. Lastly, if your vehicle has an old engine with an unclear maintenance history, it might require a valve job to adjust clearances and mitigate ticking. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe engine damage, so it’s essential to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of your vehicle.

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Mitsubishi Expo LRV Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs