2013 Nissan 370Z Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Troubleshooting the Ticking Noise in Your 2013 Nissan 370Z Engine: Causes and Solutions

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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 2013 Nissan 370Z 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 Nissan 370Z 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 Nissan 370Z, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2013 Nissan 370Z, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing components to rub together and create a ticking sound. If the oil level is adequate, proceed to inspect the valve train for any signs of wear, such as lifters that may need replacement or valves that require adjustment. Next, examine the timing chain and its tensioner, as a malfunction here can also produce a ticking noise due to improper tension. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks, particularly near the engine, which can contribute to the sound. By following this methodical process, you can narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and determine whether a simple fix is possible or if professional assistance is needed for more complex repairs.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Nissan 370Z?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Nissan 370Z, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the engine oil level; low oil can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in a noticeable ticking sound. If the oil level is adequate, consider inspecting the valve lifters, as worn or damaged lifters can also produce a ticking noise during operation. Another potential culprit is the timing chain; if it is loose or worn, it may create a ticking sound as it interacts with the engine's gears. Additionally, an exhaust leak can manifest as a ticking noise, particularly noticeable when the engine is running. Lastly, spark knock, which occurs when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely, can lead to a similar ticking or pinging sound. By systematically checking these areas, DIY enthusiasts can better understand the source of the noise and determine whether they can address the issue themselves or if professional assistance is needed.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Nissan 370Z?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2013 Nissan 370Z, urgency is paramount. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with early intervention. The ticking noise may indicate issues such as low oil levels, worn-out components, or even more serious mechanical failures. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s essential to recognize that while some engine noises may seem minor, they can escalate quickly, leading to safety hazards and compromised vehicle performance. By addressing the issue promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's integrity but also enhance its longevity and reliability. If you're not equipped to diagnose the problem yourself, seeking a professional inspection is advisable to ensure that any underlying issues are accurately identified and resolved. Taking swift action can save you time, money, and ensure a safer driving experience.

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Ticking Noise in 2013 Nissan 370Z - Causes & Solutions