Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Ticking Noise in a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

When faced with a ticking noise in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, a methodical diagnostic approach can save you time and frustration. Start 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 that might be causing the noise. Moving under the hood, assess the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to ticking sounds due to insufficient lubrication of engine parts. If the oil level is adequate, examine the ignition system for any faults that could contribute to the noise. Additionally, listen for any signs of an exhaust leak, which can manifest as a ticking sound. Pay attention to the valve clearance; if it’s too tight or too loose, it may produce a ticking noise, particularly at idle. Lastly, consider the condition of the lifters and push rods, as wear or oil deposits can lead to ticking. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes 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 Outlander Sport Engine?

When you hear a ticking noise in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport engine, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to prevent further damage. One of the most frequent culprits is low oil level or pressure, which can lead to insufficient lubrication of engine components, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, can also manifest as ticking noises. An exhaust leak is another possibility, often producing a distinct ticking sound that can be mistaken for engine trouble. If the noise seems to originate from the top of the engine, it may indicate problems with the cylinder head or its components, such as lifters that are failing or not receiving adequate oil. Furthermore, interior noises from loose items or foreign objects caught in the undercarriage can contribute to the ticking sound, so it’s wise to check for any debris. Lastly, if your vehicle has higher mileage, piston slap due to wear on the piston and cylinder walls could be the source of the noise. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively diagnose the issue and take appropriate action to maintain your vehicle's performance.

Why is it Urgent to Address a Ticking Noise in a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Addressing a ticking noise in your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's health and safety. Ignoring this seemingly minor symptom can lead to significant underlying issues, such as low oil levels or ignition system failures, which may escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. The urgency of resolving this noise is underscored by the potential for severe engine damage, which can occur if components like the drive belt idler pulley fail. Such failures not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also pose serious safety risks while driving. Furthermore, if your vehicle is still under warranty, timely intervention is essential to ensure that any necessary repairs are covered. Delaying action could jeopardize your warranty claims, leading to further complications and expenses. Therefore, it is crucial to address any ticking noises promptly to safeguard your vehicle's integrity, your safety, and your financial investment.

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Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Ticking Noise | RepairPal