2020 Porsche 718 Boxster Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster 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 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster 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 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster 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 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster, and how should I diagnose them?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster, it's crucial to follow a methodical approach that prioritizes simpler issues before delving into more complex ones. Begin by checking the engine oil level, as insufficient oil can lead to increased friction and result in ticking sounds. If the oil level is satisfactory, turn your attention to the valve train components, such as lifters and valves, which may exhibit wear or damage that contributes to the noise. Next, inspect the timing chain or belt for any signs of looseness or wear, as these components are vital for proper engine function and can produce ticking if they are not in optimal condition. Additionally, look for exhaust leaks near the engine, as these can create similar ticking sounds. Lastly, examine the heat shields surrounding the exhaust system for any looseness or damage, as they can rattle and mimic ticking noises. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively pinpoint and resolve the source of the ticking noise in your Porsche 718 Boxster.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to prevent further damage. One common issue could be related to the valve train, where worn lifters or malfunctioning valves may create an audible ticking sound. Additionally, low engine oil levels can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in similar noises as parts struggle against each other. Another potential culprit is a faulty timing chain tensioner, which can cause the timing chain to rattle and produce a ticking sound. Exhaust leaks are also known to create ticking noises, particularly noticeable when the engine is running. Lastly, spark knock, which occurs when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely, can manifest as a ticking or pinging noise. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your vehicle, 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 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster, urgency is paramount. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe consequences, including extensive engine damage that could result in costly repairs. Early detection is crucial; by addressing the noise promptly, you can prevent further deterioration of engine components, which not only safeguards your investment but also enhances the vehicle's overall performance and efficiency. Additionally, safety should be a top priority; a worsening issue could pose significant risks while driving, potentially endangering you and others on the road. For DIY enthusiasts, taking swift action can also be beneficial in terms of warranty coverage, as timely reporting of issues may ensure that repairs are covered, saving you money in the long run. Therefore, if you notice a ticking noise, it is advisable to investigate the cause immediately to maintain the integrity and safety of your Porsche.

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