Engines contain dozens of fast-moving parts that depend on a film of oil to separate and lubricate metal surfaces. A worn exhaust manifold gasket may tick as the gases escape the seal. Here’s how to size up what’s going on, understand why it happens and choose the right next step, whether it’s harmless or serious if ignored.
Want to be sure? Join the 40,000 people who have used our AI diagnosis chatbot to diagnose their ignition issues by downloading the Jerry app.
Real customers Jerry has helped
Costs for fixing your engine ticking noise depend on your exact vehicle, where you live and the quality of parts used. With Jerry, you can quickly see what drivers are paying right now. Below are real examples of customers we’ve helped secure top prices for when they need a fix for their ticking engine.
Estimates are modeled based on real vehicle and location data; names have been changed. Actual prices will vary by shop, parts, and vehicle condition.
Can I keep driving if my engine is making a ticking noise?
Car starting issues have several root causes and each come with their own level of urgency. Running a quick diagnostic in the Jerry app can help you decide whether to take your car to a shop or not. Here’s a few starting symptoms you’ll likely notice to help accelerate mechanical repairs:
🚨 Urgent — stop and investigate right away
- Oil pressure light is on and engine sounds are louder by the minute.
- Ticking is joined by knocking, smoke or a burning smell.
- The temperature gauge is climbing.
- Driving with these symptoms risks severe internal damage, so shut the engine off and arrange a tow.
🕒 Soon — OK to drive carefully, but repair soon
- Constant light ticking that doesn’t change with load.
- Ticking only on cold start, fades as engine warms.
- Audible after an oil change or long sit.
✅ Monitor — Safe to drive for now
- Soft ticks form the top of the engine with steady oil pressure.
- Faint ticking is only heard with the hood open.
- Direct-injection fuel systems often make harmless ticking noises.
Pro tip: Some ticking sounds come from thin metal parts expanding as temperatures rise and oil circulates, but running low on oil or driving with a failing component can destroy an engine in minutes. Not sure if your tick is harmless or serious? The Jerry AI diagnostic feature can analyze your symptoms to help you decide whether to book a visit or just monitor the sound.
Symptoms (explained with typical fixes)
Many modern engines use hydraulic lifters that rely on clean, pressurized oil. Contaminated or low oil starves them, creating noise and wear.
Download the Jerry app to compare local automotive repair quotes side-by-side in minutes.
Why engines tick
- Valvetrain clearance: Pushrods, rocker arms or cam followers need a film of oil. Wear or low oil supply can increase the clearances and cause noise.
- Oil issues: Low oil level, wrong viscosity or sludge can prevent parts from staying properly lubricated.
- Exhaust leaks: A cracked manifold or failed gasket can tick or chirp as gas escapes.
- Electronics: Fuel injectors and canister purge solenoids often make ticking noises as they function.
- Internal wear: Worn bearings or piston pins can start as a tick and grow to a knock.
Risks of ignoring it
Catastrophic engine damage: A dry lifter or bearing can seize, causing major damage.
Exhaust fumes in cabin: A leaking manifold may route dangerous carbon monoxide into the passenger cabin.
Repair cost spiral: A $20 oil top-off can become a multi-thousand dollar rebuild or replacement.
DIY vs. Pro: Can I do this repair myself?
There are some minor glitches that can cause your engine to make a ticking noise. However, data from Jerry customers shows most root sources should be diagnosed and repaired by a professional mechanic.
DIY-friendly checks:
- Verify oil level/condition and top off if needed.
- Listen with mechanics stethoscope to isolate the source (be mindful of moving parts).
- Inspect for obvious exhaust leaks, including dark carbon trails at leak points.
Leave to a pro:
- Measure oil pressure with a gauge.
- Remove valve covers, lifters or camshafts to inspect damage.
- Exhaust manifold replacement (risk of fasteners breaking).
- Internal engine damage diagnosis (requires teardown).
Pro tip: If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. A quick shop inspection is cheaper than an engine.
Ready to compare prices without calls? Get local quotes in minutes with the Jerry app.
Prevention tips
Change oil on schedule using correct viscosity.
Check the oil level at every fuel fill.
Allow the engine to warm up at least halfway before driving.
Fix small leaks early.
Use quality filters to keep oil clean.
A ticking engine isn’t always bad news, but it isn’t something to shrug off. Whether it’s injector chatter or the first sign of oil starvation, investigating early can keep your engine healthy and your wallet intact. Putting the noise off could have cost the owner a camshaft or worse.
What our customers are asking us
-
Is injector ticking normal?
-
Can bad oil cause ticking?
-
How can I tell if it’s an exhaust leak?
-
Can I drive if the oil light is on and the engine ticks?
-
Could a ticking noise come from the transmission or driveline?
Jerel Lawrence is an experienced and certified automotive technician with a strong foundation in diagnostics, repair and technical mentorship. A graduate of NASCAR Technical Institute in 2010, Jerel began his career at national automotive repair chain locations, where he earned eight certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
From 2017 to 2022, he worked as a General Motors-certified technician at a Cadillac dealership, refining his skills in manufacturer-specific diagnostics and service procedures. Today, Jerel leads as the senior technician and mentor at a family-owned repair facility, where he helps guide the next generation of technicians while ensuring top-quality service.
In addition to hands-on work, Jerel contributes to the automotive community through writing detailed articles and answering technical questions to help vehicle owners better understand and care for their cars.
Everett Cook is an award-winning journalist and editor with more than 10 years of experience across a variety of industries. In editing for Jerry, Everett’s mission is to help readers have a better understanding of the costs of owning or leasing a car and to better understand their vehicle in terms of insurance and repairs. Prior to joining Jerry, Everett was an editor for Axios. His previous work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Atlantic, Atlantic Re:think, The Boston Globe, USA Today, and others. He’s also been a freelance writer and editor with experience in SEO, audience building, and long-term content roadmaps. Everett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
