Why Does My Car Make a Clicking or Ticking Noise? What It Means and When to Worry

Hearing a strange clicking or ticking noise coming from your car? You're not alone — this is one of the most common questions we get from customers. If you're asking why does my car make a clicking or ticking noise, it could be something minor… or something serious. In this blog, we’ll help you identify the most common sources of ticking sounds and explain when it’s time to visit Marble Falls Auto Center.

Ticking Noise from the Engine: Lifter or Valve Issues

If the ticking is coming from under the hood, especially at idle or during acceleration, it may involve your engine’s valvetrain.

Common causes:

• Worn or sticking lifters

• Low oil pressure

• Valve lash that needs adjustment

These parts regulate your engine's breathing and depend on proper lubrication. A ticking engine is often a sign that something inside needs attention before it causes damage.

Clicking Noise When Turning: CV Axle Trouble

If you hear a clicking sound while turning, especially at lower speeds, it’s often a failing CV joint on your front axle. This joint allows the wheels to turn smoothly while the suspension moves.

Symptoms:

• Clicks only when turning, not going straight

• Gets louder over time

• May be accompanied by vibration

We can inspect and replace worn CV axles to prevent a full drivetrain failure.

Why Does My Car Make a Clicking or Ticking Noise? What It Means and When to Worry

Ticking From the Wheels: Loose Lug Nuts or Brakes

If the clicking noise seems to follow the rotation of your tires, it might be something as simple — and dangerous — as loose lug nuts.

Other possibilities include:

• Worn brake pads

• A rock or debris stuck in the brake rotor

• Warped rotors or sticking calipers

At Marble Falls Auto Center, we perform full brake and wheel inspections to quickly pinpoint noises like these.

Ticking While Accelerating: Exhaust Leaks

Believe it or not, a tiny exhaust leak can sound like a ticking engine noise. This is usually due to a cracked manifold or a worn exhaust gasket.

How to tell:

• Ticking gets louder with RPMs

• Slight burning smell or exhaust odor

• Lower fuel efficiency

This issue can get worse over time and affect engine performance. It’s worth getting checked before the leak worsens.

Final Thoughts

Still wondering why does my car make a clicking or ticking noise? The truth is, no abnormal sound should be ignored — especially when it’s coming from your engine, wheels, or suspension. Catching these problems early can save you hundreds in repairs (and maybe prevent a breakdown).

At Marble Falls Auto Center, we offer expert diagnostics and fast repairs so you can drive quietly — and confidently — again. Hear a noise? Let us take a look today.