2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 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 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 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 a 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 engine?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500 engine, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the oil level and quality, as low or degraded oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing components to rub together and create noise. If the oil appears dirty or is below the recommended level, consider changing it to see if the ticking subsides. Next, inspect the valve train for any signs of wear, particularly the lifters and valves, which may require adjustment or replacement. If the noise persists, examine the timing chain tensioner, as a malfunction here can lead to improper tensioning of the timing chain, resulting in a ticking sound. Additionally, look for any exhaust leaks, especially near the engine, as these can also produce similar noises. Lastly, consider the possibility of spark knock, which may be influenced by fuel quality or ignition timing. By following this step-by-step approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to insufficient lubrication and result in ticking sounds. Therefore, checking the oil level and its condition is a vital first step. Additionally, issues within the valve train, such as worn lifters or valves, can also produce similar noises, necessitating a thorough inspection of these components. Another potential source of the ticking could be a loose or worn timing chain or belt, which requires careful examination to ensure proper tension and condition. Furthermore, an exhaust leak can create ticking sounds, so inspecting the exhaust system for any leaks is essential. Lastly, spark knock, caused by improper fuel octane ratings, can lead to ticking noises as well, making it important to verify that the correct fuel is being used. While these steps can help in identifying the issue, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a precise diagnosis and resolution.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2017 Ram ProMaster 2500, it’s crucial to assess the situation with urgency. A sudden or loud ticking sound, especially if accompanied by symptoms like loss of power or rough idling, could indicate a serious engine issue that demands immediate attention to avoid further damage. Regular maintenance plays a vital role in identifying minor problems before they escalate, so if the noise persists but isn’t severe, scheduling a diagnostic check with a qualified mechanic is advisable. Ignoring such noises can lead to safety risks, as engine failure while driving can have dire consequences. Additionally, delaying necessary repairs can result in more extensive damage, ultimately leading to higher repair costs. Therefore, addressing a ticking noise promptly not only ensures the reliability and performance of your vehicle but also helps you save money in the long run. Prioritizing these concerns will help maintain the longevity of your Ram ProMaster 2500.

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