2020 Volkswagen Arteon Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Troubleshooting the Ticking Noise in Your 2020 Volkswagen Arteon Engine: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Volkswagen Arteon 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 Volkswagen Arteon 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 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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Volkswagen Arteon?

When faced with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2020 Volkswagen Arteon, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the oil level; ensuring it is both adequate and clean is crucial, as low or dirty oil can lead to increased engine noise. Next, inspect the timing belt or chain for any signs of wear or looseness, as these components are vital for engine operation and can contribute to ticking sounds if compromised. Following this, examine the valve train, focusing on lifters and valves, since worn components here can also produce similar noises. Additionally, assess the condition of the spark plugs, as faulty or worn plugs may generate ticking sounds; replacing them could resolve the issue. Lastly, don't overlook the exhaust system; inspect it for any leaks or damage, as these can create ticking noises as well. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and take appropriate action to remedy the situation.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Volkswagen Arteon?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Volkswagen Arteon, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to increased friction among engine components, resulting in a noticeable ticking sound. Additionally, worn valve lifters may also contribute to this noise, as they can fail to operate smoothly, creating a ticking effect during engine operation. Another potential cause is a faulty timing belt, which can disrupt the engine's timing and produce similar sounds. An exhaust leak, particularly near the engine, can also manifest as a ticking noise due to the escape of hot gases through small openings. Lastly, spark knock, or pre-ignition, can lead to abnormal combustion and result in a ticking sound. For those looking to address these issues, it's advisable to check the engine oil level first, inspect the valve lifters, and listen for any exhaust leaks, while also being aware that a professional mechanic may be needed for more complex problems like timing belt issues.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Volkswagen Arteon?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Volkswagen Arteon is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe consequences, including extensive engine damage that may result in costly repairs. The ticking sound could indicate low oil levels, worn-out components, or valve train issues, all of which can escalate if left unchecked. Moreover, the safety of the vehicle is at stake; a malfunctioning engine can compromise your driving experience and put you and others at risk on the road. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize this issue and consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem promptly, ensuring the reliability and performance of your vehicle.

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