2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, a systematic diagnostic approach is essential for identifying the root cause. Start by performing a visual inspection of the engine components, looking for any obvious signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Next, listen carefully to the engine while it is running to help pinpoint the source of the ticking sound. Checking the engine oil level is crucial; ensure it is at the recommended level and that the oil is clean, as low or dirty oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and noise. If the ticking persists, consider inspecting the valve lifters for wear, as they may need replacement. Additionally, examine the timing belt for any signs of damage, as a faulty belt can also contribute to ticking noises. Don’t overlook the exhaust system; check for any leaks or loose components that could be causing the sound. Lastly, if you suspect spark knock, adjusting the ignition timing or using higher octane fuel may help mitigate the issue. If these steps do not resolve the problem, consulting a mechanic for a professional diagnosis is advisable to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a lack of lubrication, which can stem from low oil levels or the presence of old, dirty oil that requires changing. Insufficient lubrication can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in that characteristic ticking sound. Additionally, issues with the valve train, such as worn lifters or valves, may also contribute to the noise, necessitating adjustments or replacements to restore proper function. Another area to inspect is the timing belt or chain; if these components are loose or worn, they can create ticking noises as they interact with pulleys and gears. Furthermore, spark knock, often caused by using fuel with an incorrect octane rating or ignition system problems, can manifest as a ticking sound. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of exhaust leaks, which can produce similar noises as hot gases escape from the system. For those looking to tackle this issue themselves, a thorough inspection of these components can help identify the source of the ticking noise, although consulting a qualified mechanic may ultimately be necessary for a precise diagnosis and repair.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is of utmost importance and should not be overlooked. The urgency of this issue stems from the potential consequences of neglecting such symptoms, which can range from minor inconveniences to severe engine damage. Early detection is key; a ticking noise may indicate low oil levels, which can easily be remedied, or it could signal a more serious problem, such as a worn-out component that could lead to catastrophic engine failure if left unchecked. Ignoring this noise not only risks escalating repair costs but also compromises the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the source of the ticking noise promptly, ensuring that your Lancer remains in optimal condition and preventing further complications down the line.

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2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Engine Ticking Noise Solutions