1998 Suzuki X-90 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 1998 Suzuki X-90 Engine and How to Resolve 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 1998 Suzuki X-90 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 or corroded exhaust system component can create 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 1998 Suzuki X-90 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 could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 1998 Suzuki X-90?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 1998 Suzuki X-90, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the first things to check is the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in ticking sounds. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as faulty spark plugs or wires, can also contribute to this noise. An exhaust leak is another possibility; it can create a ticking sound that may be mistaken for engine trouble. If your vehicle has been sitting idle for a while, the hydraulic lifters might bleed down, causing a ticking noise until the engine warms up and oil circulates properly. Furthermore, be aware that damaged main bearings can produce a dull thud or knock, especially under load, indicating a more serious issue. Lastly, inspect for any loose components around the camshaft area, as these can create clicking sounds that are often easily fixed with adjustments. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify the source of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to resolve it, ensuring your engine runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 1998 Suzuki X-90?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 1998 Suzuki X-90, it’s crucial to act swiftly, as this sound can be a precursor to more serious mechanical failures. Ignoring the noise may lead to significant engine damage, which can result in costly repairs and even compromise your vehicle's safety. The ticking could stem from various issues, such as low oil pressure or faulty valvetrain components, and understanding the severity of the problem is essential. By diagnosing the source of the noise early on, you can prevent further complications and ensure your engine operates smoothly. Therefore, if you notice a ticking sound, don’t delay in investigating the cause; prompt action can save you time, money, and potential safety hazards down the road.

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