Clicking Noise in Your Car? Let’s Diagnose the Problem

Car riding is one of the most comfortable and widely used transportation methods worldwide. Experiencing different kinds of noises when driving a car is normal, but differentiating between normal and upset tones is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress or drama. If you are experiencing any unusual racket, such as a clicking noise when accelerating, you need an instant car inspection to diagnose the main culprit and eliminate this issue.

Experiencing a clicking noise when driving is nothing to be scared about because it sometimes happens only because of low oil levels, and it fixes automatically after refilling the fuel. However, it can lead to severe troubles, from decreasing car efficiency to wearing or tearing crucial engine parts, if not addressed timely. Therefore, regular car inspection and maintenance are mandatory to keep it in the right working order.

Why Is My Car Making Clicking Noise?

Engine ticking or car clicking noise is a common problem that anyone can experience during driving due to multiple reasons. It can be easily fixed, and you can even do this task manually, but understanding the reasons behind the issue is highly crucial to avoid further damage.

A car clicking noise can be produced due to various reasons, including low fuel, bad quality oil, damaged brake pads, fuel leak, and damaged car battery. You can explore here all the culprits behind the ticking noise in the car and all possible methods to fix it adequately.

1. Low Fuel Level

One major culprit behind the ticking noise is the low fuel level or bad quality oil. It causes friction and fastens the wearing or tear of various engine parts. Therefore, using good quality fuel and refilling the oil tank before reaching the minimum level is crucial to ensure the proper running and functioning of the car.

One major culprit behind the ticking noise is the low fuel level or bad quality oil

2. Faulty Alternators

Another reason is the bad battery and faulty alternators. Alternators are responsible for supplying an adequate amount of current to the battery and charging it properly. When they fail to function correctly, it results in the car won’t start makes clicking noise. Recharging the battery and repairing or replacing alternators can fix this issue.

vehicle alternator
Photo: Andy Arthur

3. Worn Brake Pads

The braking system is one of the most crucial car parts, and experiencing a clicking noise when braking indicates a problem with the brake pads. Loose or worn brake pads cause a grinding sound and significantly reduce the car’s efficiency.

If you hear a clicking noise when braking, it's a sign that there is an issue with the brake pads, which are a vital component of the car's braking system.

4. Valves Misalignment

Valves control the oil flow between the car engine system and other parts. These valves work automatically. Poor maintenance and dust accumulation cause difficulties in opening and shutting the valves, resulting in producing sharp clicking noise when starting the vehicle.

5. Exhaust Leak

The engine is the central part of any vehicle, which helps it to run on the road. It has a compact system and does not allow anything to enter or exit through it freely. However, damaged gaskets and various other reasons can cause exhaust leaks. It results in a sharp clicking sound.

6. Loose Lug Nuts

One of the rare but most dangerous reasons behind clicking noise can be misaligned lug nets. They are responsible for wheel alignment. When they lose, car wheels start making funny noises.

How To Fix It?

Fixing the clicking sound when starting a car is relatively easy. It can be done both professionally and manually. Some common but effective ways to solve this issue are listed below.

Oil Refilling

When talking about fixing this sound, low car performance, and other issues, the very first thing that comes to mind is oil refilling. Therefore, using good-quality oil and refilling the oil tank every 3000 miles is crucial to ensure the proper running of the car.

Properly maintaining your car's oil system is essential for optimal performance, and this includes using high-quality oil and replenishing the oil reservoir every 3000 miles.

Lubrication

Using lousy quality fuel or due to low oil levels, engine parts start making noise due to friction. Lubricating these parts can quickly solve this issue. Make sure to use suitable quality lubricants only to avoid further damage.

Repairing or Replacing Damage Parts

Clicking noise usually occurs due to low battery and damaged or worn engine parts, including damaged alternators, faulty gaskets, broken brake pads, and loose valves also. Repairing defective parts can solve this issue immediately. However, replacing damaged parts is the best and most economical solution to get permanent relief.

Professional Service

Sending your car for regular inspection, repair, and maintenance is the best way to avoid such problems. Always choose a reliable service station to send your vehicle to fix the issue immediately.

FAQs:

Can Low Oil Cause a Clicking Sound In Your Car’s Engine?

Yes, car oil is not only crucial for the proper functioning of an engine, but it also lubricates the engine parts. Low oil level causes friction which results in clicking noise. It can be easily fixed using good quality lubricants and refilling the fuel tank.

Can a Faulty Alternator Cause a Clicking Sound In Your Vehicle?

Absolutely yes! If your car makes noise due to a bad battery or the battery shuts down shortly after recharging it,  then faulty alternators can be culprits. Replacing them instantly is the best and permanent solution to eliminate clicking noise and many other issues.

Why Does My Vehicle Keep Making Clicking Noise?

Usually, clicking noise happens due to a faulty car’s fuel system. However, it can also occur due to various other reasons, which are listed below.

  • Bad battery
  • Faulty alternators
  • Exhaust leak
  • Loose valves
  • Misalignment
  • Loose drive belt
  • Faulty CV joints
  • Poorly inflated tires

Can I Drive With A Clicking Noise?

It depends on the location of the noise. If you are experiencing this noise from the front of the steering wheel, it can be risky to drive continuously. Therefore, immediate measures are crucial to avoid severe troubles and life-threatening road accidents.

Takeaway

After going through this guide, you are well aware of the reasons, damages, and possible solutions of car clicking noise due to a bad alternator, low oil pressure, poor vehicle maintenance, and many other reasons. Using this guide, you can easily deal with this issue and avoid massive damage to your vehicle and valet.

Read More on CarDecent:

Last Updated on May 14, 2023 by admin

Leave a Comment