Q: Clicking sound upon startup

asked by on January 27, 2016

The car is making a clicking sound when I start it up. The clicking sound increases with the RPMs.

Loud clicking noise when I turn the car Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. I have come across this many times on this engine. If the clicking noise comes up when the vehicle is first started, then check the engine oil first and replace it if it is old. I have also seen cheap oil filters cause this, so I would always use a Motorcraft oil filter on this engine. If that does not resolve anything, then the cam timing actuators need to be checked as it is common for these to fail. If these need to be replaced, then the front of the engine will need to be disassembled. I would get come assistance from a certified mechanic to inspect the clicking sound.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Emission issue causing car to run poorly.
Hello. If the engine in your car is not running properly then that will typically cause it to fail an emissions test. If the check engine light is on then you should have the computer scanned for codes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) to...
Car not starting smoothly.
Hello, it sounds like you have a leaking injector. When you hold down the gas pedal, it puts the computer into clear flood mode and does not inject fuel into the engine. Once you clear the fuel, it starts and...
Service engine soon light stays on after repairs
If the light is still on, then it may still have a problem that is still there. I recommend having the ECM scanned (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-do-i-look-up-what-different-codes-mean) and the codes received should be diagnosed. The code may be the only tool for an...
Rpm's started to rise to around 1400 when idling and a dash message lit up saying reduce engine power.
Hi there. Check the idle air control valve (IAC) on your vehicle. This valve is what controls the idle and is most likely stuck or has failed. When turning off the vehicle and then turning it back on, the valve...
Backfiring after the engine is revved up.
Hi there. It is normal for an engine to backfire when revved up and the throttle is let off, especially if the muffler is small and the exhaust is loud. Now, if the engine is backfiring while the engine is...
How much would it cost to get the gear box replaced in my 1996 Acura RL
Hello. If the transmission gears are actually stripped then the transmission needs to be either rebuilt or replaced. It can be taken apart and inspected to see if it is savable but it may not be. If not then it...
catalytic converter going bad does it need to be replaced?
The catalyst should be replaced as soon as possible if it is bad. The backpressure on the engine will cause the engine to run with less power and may overheat the engine valves resulting in engine damage. the catalyst can...
I have a Mitsubishi Diamante 2000 LS with 197,450 miles and I'm not sure if my transmission blew or if it's something else.
I would not suspect the transmission is bad just from hitting a bump. It is most likely a wire connection came loose or something else minor. You will need to have the car checked to see what happened by a...
My truck is squeaking An it squeaks while it’s in park and drive and it has a new belt, idle pulley, ac pulley.
There are a number of other bearings, belts, and pulleys that may also produce a squealing sound (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/loud-squealing-or-rattling-is-coming-from-engine-inspection) when they are worn, loose or potentially begin to fail. I would suggest having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Lincoln MKT
This This roomy wagon definitely has a different look – its bold and somewhat retro lines, draw attention in a way Lincoln hasn’t experienced since perhaps the ’78 Town Car. While the MKT may not be the sleekest, sportiest crossover...
How to Diagnose an Ignition Key That Won’t Turn
If your car key won't turn in the ignition and your steering wheel locks it's easy to fix. Try jiggling the steering wheel and checking the battery.
Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Lincoln certified pre-owned cars are under 7 years old, have less than 60,000 miles, and come with a 6 year or 100,000 miles comprehensive warranty.