2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Ticking Noises in 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Explained

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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 Outlander 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 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, and how should I diagnose it?

To diagnose the ticking noise in your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, start with the simplest and most accessible checks. Begin by inspecting the engine oil level; low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, causing components to create a ticking sound. If the oil level is fine, examine the condition of the oil itself, as dirty or degraded oil can also contribute to engine noise. Next, consider the valve lifters, as worn or damaged lifters can produce a distinct ticking sound. If you’re comfortable, you can remove the valve cover to inspect them visually. Following this, check the exhaust system for any leaks, as these can manifest as ticking noises, particularly when the engine is under load. If the ticking persists, investigate the timing chain tensioner, as issues here can lead to improper tension and noise. Lastly, listen carefully for signs of spark knock, which may occur under acceleration and can be indicative of fuel quality or timing issues. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively narrow down the source of the ticking noise and take appropriate action.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, it’s crucial to understand the common problems that could be causing this sound. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing engine components to rub together and create a ticking sound. Another potential issue is worn valve lifters; as these components degrade, they may not function properly, resulting in a noticeable ticking noise. Additionally, a faulty timing belt can disrupt the engine's operation, leading to irregular sounds. An exhaust leak is another possibility, where hot gases escaping through small openings can produce a ticking sound. Lastly, spark knock, or pre-ignition, can occur due to improper combustion timing, contributing to the ticking noise. Identifying these issues early is essential to prevent further damage to your engine, making it important for DIY enthusiasts to investigate these common causes thoroughly.

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

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, it is crucial to assess the situation with urgency. This sound can be indicative of underlying issues such as low oil levels, worn components, or valve train problems, which, if left unaddressed, may lead to severe engine damage. The presence of additional symptoms like rough idling or loss of power further amplifies the need for immediate attention, as these can signal that the engine is struggling to operate efficiently. Regular maintenance is key to catching these problems early, but if the ticking persists, seeking a professional mechanic's expertise is advisable. Ignoring such noises not only jeopardizes the vehicle's performance but also poses safety risks on the road, making it essential to prioritize the resolution of any abnormal sounds to ensure both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Ticking Noise Issues