2010 Nissan Murano Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2010 Nissan Murano Engine and Recommended Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2010 Nissan Murano 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 2010 Nissan Murano 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 2010 Nissan Murano, and how should I diagnose them?

To effectively diagnose the ticking noise in your 2010 Nissan Murano, start with the simplest and most accessible checks. Begin by inspecting the engine oil level and quality, as low or dirty oil can lead to increased engine noise. If the oil appears low, topping it up or changing it may resolve the issue. Next, listen carefully to the noise's timing; noting whether it occurs during acceleration, idle, or deceleration can help identify its source. Following this, conduct a visual inspection of the engine components, particularly the timing chain and valve train, looking for signs of wear or damage. If the ticking persists, consider checking for exhaust leaks, as these can sometimes mimic engine noise. Additionally, using an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes can provide valuable insights into underlying issues. If these steps do not lead to a resolution, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable, as they can perform a more thorough inspection and offer expert guidance. By following this structured approach, you can systematically narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take appropriate action.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Nissan Murano?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2010 Nissan Murano, it’s crucial to identify the source to prevent further damage. One of the most common culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to inadequate lubrication of engine components, resulting in increased friction and noise. Another frequent issue is worn out lifters, which play a vital role in the operation of the engine's valves; if they are faulty, they can create a distinct ticking sound. Additionally, a faulty timing chain may also be responsible, as it can produce noise while moving around the engine's gears and pulleys. An exhaust leak, particularly near the engine, can manifest as a ticking noise, especially noticeable when the engine is running. Lastly, spark knock, or pre-ignition, can occur due to problems with the fuel or ignition system, leading to a ticking sound. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining the health of your vehicle's engine.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Nissan Murano?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2010 Nissan Murano, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for any DIY enthusiast. Ignoring this symptom can lead to significant engine damage, which may result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with early detection. The ticking noise could indicate issues such as low oil levels, worn-out components, or even more serious mechanical failures. By addressing the problem promptly, you not only safeguard the engine's integrity but also enhance the vehicle's overall performance and efficiency. Moreover, neglecting such noises can pose safety risks, as they may signal underlying issues that could affect the vehicle's operation. Therefore, it is advisable to investigate the source of the ticking noise as soon as possible, ensuring that your Nissan Murano remains reliable and safe on the road.

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