Why is my engine making ticking noise when idling?
Quote from Deleted user on June 16, 2025, 11:01 amWhen your engine is idling (running but not moving), you may hear a repetitive "tick-tick-tick" sound. This usually comes from metal parts tapping or something not functioning smoothly inside the engine.
When your engine is idling (running but not moving), you may hear a repetitive "tick-tick-tick" sound. This usually comes from metal parts tapping or something not functioning smoothly inside the engine.
Quote from TechDIYTony on June 16, 2025, 11:15 amTicking at idle can also be caused by worn lifters, bad oil pump, or valve train issues. Using high-quality oil sometimes reduces the noise. If it continues, better to check the lifters and oil pressure.
Ticking at idle can also be caused by worn lifters, bad oil pump, or valve train issues. Using high-quality oil sometimes reduces the noise. If it continues, better to check the lifters and oil pressure.
Quote from DIYDan on June 16, 2025, 4:32 pmA ticking noise at idle is often caused by low oil level, worn lifters, or exhaust manifold leaks. Start by checking your oil level and condition. If oil is fine, it might be a minor lifter noise, which is common in higher mileage engines but usually harmless unless it gets louder.
A ticking noise at idle is often caused by low oil level, worn lifters, or exhaust manifold leaks. Start by checking your oil level and condition. If oil is fine, it might be a minor lifter noise, which is common in higher mileage engines but usually harmless unless it gets louder.
Quote from AutoFixerMike on June 17, 2025, 2:59 pmMost likely it’s either lifters (oil pressure issue) or injectors, but don’t rule out other valvetrain or accessory wear. Always start with oil level and quality—your engine talking back.
Most likely it’s either lifters (oil pressure issue) or injectors, but don’t rule out other valvetrain or accessory wear. Always start with oil level and quality—your engine talking back.
Quote from LadyGreaseHands on June 18, 2025, 11:00 amA ticking noise at idle is often caused by low oil levels, dirty oil, or normal valve lifter sounds. It’s a good idea to check your oil first—if the level is low or the oil looks dirty, a simple oil change might fix it. If the noise continues, have a mechanic check for any internal engine issues.
A ticking noise at idle is often caused by low oil levels, dirty oil, or normal valve lifter sounds. It’s a good idea to check your oil first—if the level is low or the oil looks dirty, a simple oil change might fix it. If the noise continues, have a mechanic check for any internal engine issues.