2024 Volvo XC40 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2024 Volvo XC40 Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2024 Volvo XC40 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 2024 Volvo XC40 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 2024 Volvo XC40?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2024 Volvo XC40, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the oil level; low or dirty oil can lead to increased engine noise, so ensure it is at the proper level and in good condition. Next, inspect the timing belt or chain for any signs of wear or looseness, as these components are critical for engine function and can contribute to ticking sounds if compromised. Additionally, examine the valve train, focusing on lifters and valves, which may be worn or damaged. Listening carefully to pinpoint the noise's location can also provide clues about its source, helping you narrow down potential issues. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can reveal underlying problems that may not be immediately visible. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose the ticking noise and determine the best course of action for your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2024 Volvo XC40?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2024 Volvo XC40, it's crucial to consider several common issues that can be tackled with some basic mechanical knowledge. One of the primary culprits is low engine oil, which can lead to increased friction and noise as the engine components struggle to operate smoothly. Regularly checking and maintaining the oil level can help prevent this problem. Another potential cause is worn valve lifters; these components can degrade over time, resulting in a distinct ticking sound. If you're comfortable with engine disassembly, inspecting and replacing lifters may be a feasible DIY task. Additionally, faulty fuel injectors can contribute to the noise, as they may not be delivering fuel efficiently. Cleaning or replacing these injectors can often resolve the issue. Loose belts or pulleys are also common offenders; ensuring that all belts are properly tensioned and secured can eliminate unwanted sounds. Lastly, an exhaust leak, particularly near the engine, can create a ticking noise that mimics other issues. Inspecting the exhaust system for leaks and repairing them can restore quiet operation. By addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the ticking noise in your Volvo XC40 engine.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2024 Volvo XC40?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2024 Volvo XC40 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Early detection is key; by identifying the issue promptly, you can prevent further damage to critical engine components, which could lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Additionally, unusual engine noises can indicate underlying problems that may compromise your vehicle's safety while driving. Ignoring these symptoms not only risks your safety but can also negatively impact the overall performance of your vehicle. For those considering a DIY approach, it is essential to understand that while some minor issues may be manageable, a professional inspection is often necessary to accurately diagnose the cause of the ticking noise. Taking swift action not only ensures the longevity of your Volvo XC40 but also helps maintain its optimal performance and safety on the road.

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2024 Volvo XC40 Engine Ticking Noise - Causes & Repairs