2016 Subaru Impreza Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2016 Subaru Impreza 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 2016 Subaru Impreza 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 2016 Subaru Impreza 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.

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 2016 Subaru Impreza, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2016 Subaru Impreza, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by using a stethoscope to listen closely to the engine, which can help you localize the noise and determine if it originates from the valvetrain, where issues like lifter tick or cam bearing problems are common. Next, check your oil levels and ensure you are using the correct oil type, as insufficient or poor-quality oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. Inspect the condition and tension of the serpentine belt and any associated tensioners, as these components can also contribute to the noise if they are failing. Additionally, evaluate your fuel quality; using the recommended octane rating is crucial for optimal engine performance and can prevent issues related to the fuel system. Don’t overlook the spark plugs; ensure they are in good condition and properly gapped, as incorrect spark plug specifications can lead to ticking or knocking noises. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consider more serious mechanical failures, such as piston slap or ringland failure, which require immediate professional attention. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to address the problem.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Subaru Impreza?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2016 Subaru Impreza, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is valvetrain issues, which involve components like lifters and camshafts. A collapsed lifter or worn cam bearing can create a distinct ticking sound, often localized to one side of the engine. Additionally, problems within the fuel system, such as malfunctioning fuel injectors, may contribute to the noise, although these are less frequent causes. Spark plug and timing problems can also lead to ticking; ensuring that your spark plugs are in good condition and properly gapped is vital for optimal engine performance. Furthermore, low oil pressure or poor oil quality can hinder lubrication, potentially resulting in ticking noises. It's also worth checking the exhaust system, as a misaligned heat shield can produce similar sounds. Lastly, using fuel with an octane rating lower than recommended can lead to engine knocking, which, while typically associated with a different sound, is still an important factor to consider. By systematically checking these areas, you can narrow down the source of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of my 2016 Subaru Impreza?

When dealing with a ticking noise in your 2016 Subaru Impreza, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for effective DIY maintenance. If the noise resembles the typical "boxer sound" or injector tick, it is generally considered low urgency and may not require immediate action. However, if the noise stems from loose or faulty components, such as a timing chain tensioner, it is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the engine. In cases where the noise is linked to the exhaust heat shield, while it may not pose a significant risk, fixing it can enhance your driving experience by reducing annoyance. Conversely, if the ticking is accompanied by symptoms like oil leaks or warning lights, this indicates a high urgency scenario that necessitates immediate attention to avoid severe engine damage. By assessing the nature of the noise and its accompanying symptoms, you can determine the appropriate level of urgency and take the necessary steps to maintain your vehicle's health.

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2016 Subaru Impreza Engine Ticking Noise - Causes & Repairs