2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, and how should I diagnose it?

To effectively diagnose the ticking noise in your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, listen carefully to identify the noise's source, which may help you determine if it’s coming from the lifters, timing belt, or chain. Next, consider the possibility of spark knock, which can occur from using the wrong fuel grade or ignition timing issues. Inspect the exhaust system for any leaks, as these can also mimic ticking noises. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide additional insights into potential engine problems. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a thorough inspection and accurate diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can systematically address the ticking noise and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, 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 unmistakable ticking sound. Additionally, worn valve lifters are another frequent cause; as these components degrade over time, they can create noise during operation. A faulty timing belt may also contribute to the problem, as a worn or damaged belt can generate noise while moving through the engine's pulleys and gears. Furthermore, an exhaust leak can produce a ticking sound, particularly noticeable when the engine is running, due to escaping gases. Lastly, spark knock, or detonation, can manifest as a ticking or pinging noise caused by improper combustion timing. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage to your engine, making it vital for DIY enthusiasts to investigate these potential causes thoroughly.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. Ignoring such noises can lead to severe consequences, including potential engine damage or safety hazards while driving. If the ticking is accompanied by symptoms like loss of power or rough idling, it is imperative to act quickly, as these could indicate serious underlying issues that require immediate attention. Regular maintenance is key to preventing these problems, so adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule can help keep your engine in optimal condition. If the noise persists despite routine checks, conducting a diagnostic assessment is essential to pinpoint the cause and avoid costly repairs down the line. Ultimately, addressing any unusual engine sounds promptly not only enhances the performance of your Outlander but also ensures your safety on the road.

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