Branch 1
Antwerpen / Merksem
Bredabaan 1052170 Merksem
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:30 Sat 10:00–17:00
Engine, exhaust and fluids
Car makes a ticking or knocking noise
A ticking or knocking noise from the engine is not always serious, but it can point to a lack of lubrication or to wear inside the engine. How it sounds, when it happens and whether a warning light is on as well all help to judge it.
Recognisable signs
What you may notice.
- A regular ticking sound that gets faster with engine speed
- A dull knocking sound, especially under load or when accelerating
- A rattling or squealing noise at the front of the engine
- The noise is worse on a cold start and fades later, or the other way round
- An additional warning light, loss of power or an oil leak
Possible causes
What may be behind it.
These are possibilities, not a diagnosis. A technician identifies which cause fits your car after checking it.
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Low oil level or old oil
With too little or worn-out oil the engine is lubricated less well, which can cause ticking noises.
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Valves or hydraulic tappets
A tick from the top of the engine can have to do with the valve mechanism.
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The timing or the tensioner
A rattling or squealing noise can point to a worn timing chain, tensioner or belt. That needs investigating in good time to avoid serious engine damage.
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An exhaust leak
A leaking gasket on the exhaust manifold can tick, especially when the engine is cold.
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A deeper problem in the engine
A dull knock that gets worse under load can point to bearing wear. That is serious and has to be investigated.
Keep driving?
Can I keep driving with this?
With a light ticking noise, no warning light and normal power, you can sometimes keep driving carefully until your appointment. If possible, check the oil level as described in the handbook. If you hear knocking, a red oil warning light comes on or the engine loses power, do not drive on.
Check soonHave this checked soon
At WeFix
What WeFix can check.
This is what our technicians can look at to find the cause.
- Assessing the oil level and the condition of the oil
- Locating the noise: top, bottom or side of the engine
- Inspecting the timing, tensioner and drive belt
- Checking the exhaust manifold and engine for leaks
If we find something, you hear it first. We only repair after your approval.
Services
Related services.
This is where WeFix Auto’s can help with this symptom.
Branches
Call or drop by.
Not sure, or is it urgent? Call the branch near you and describe what you notice.
2170 Merksem
Branch 2
Brasschaat
Bredabaan 7372930 Brasschaat
Mon–Fri 08:30–18:00 Sat 09:00–12:00
Also read
Related problems.
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Stop safely
Oil warning light on: stop at once or book an appointment?
A red oil warning light can point to low oil pressure or a low oil level. Without enough lubrication an engine can be seriously damaged in a short time. That is why the first answer here is not “book an appointment” but to stop safely. Read the explanation -
Check soon
Check engine light on: what does it mean and can you keep driving?
The check engine light tells you that the car’s computer has detected a fault in the engine, the exhaust or the fuel supply. The light does not say exactly what is wrong: that takes a diagnostic read-out and a proper check. If it stays on constantly, have it looked at soon. If it flashes, extra care is needed. Read the explanation -
Check soon
White, blue or black smoke from the exhaust
The colour of the smoke gives a first hint, but never certainty. A little white vapour on a cold start can simply be condensation. Persistent, thick white, blue or black smoke points to a possible problem with coolant, oil or combustion. Read the explanation -
Stop safely
Engine running too hot: what does a rising temperature mean?
If the temperature gauge climbs towards the red zone or a warning appears, the engine may be overheating. That can cause serious damage within a short time. The cause usually lies in the cooling system, but which part is at fault has to be investigated. Read the explanation
Have your car checked.
Request a no-obligation quote or call a branch. You hear what we find first.
Please note: This explanation is general information and does not replace a technical diagnosis. The cause can only be established after your car has been checked. If you are worried about your safety, stop and ask for professional help.