Q: Ticking when I first start driving

asked by on June 03, 2016

When I first start my vehicle in the morning, I usually hear a "clicking" or "ticking" noise coming from the engine. I don't think I've heard this before in my older vehicles. Once the engine warms up, the noise seems to disappear. Is this something to be concerned about? What could cause the noise?

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

Car misfires; crack in manifold
Hello. A crack in the exhaust manifold near the O2 sensor can cause some poor sensor readings to the computer. The crack will allow fresh air to enter the exhaust, which causes the sensor to tell the computer that there...
Will a 3.5L Ecoboost engine fit? How much work would it take to install one?
Hello, it is probably possible to fit that particular engine (or any engine really), with the features you like on that vehicle. However it will probably be expensive and will likely be a highly custom job that requires special parts,...
Car idles fast when stopping.
Hi there: It looks like you've inspected all the normal suspects of a high engine idle situation. One issue that pops up occasionally; especially on early 2000 period cars, trucks and SUV's is due to a faulty radiator coolant temperature...
My battery keeps going dead if I don't drive it everyday.
If your battery is in good condition, you might have an "electrical leak" And you may be spot on about the trunk sensor. But it could also be many other things. When the car is shut off and closed up,...
Intermittent clunk under floorboard
Ball joints (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ball-joint-front-replacement) are a fairly common repair item on these trucks and when they fail, customers usually explain some of the same symptoms you are describing now. There is an allowable amount of play for some components as there...
P1127 ETCS Actuator Power Source Circuit Malfunction
Hi there. There are probably more blown fuses than just the two you mentioned. That particular code generally means that the throttle motor circuit has no power available. I suggest checking all the fuses and replacing as necessary; this includes...
Push gas in gear and it boggs down a lot
It sounds like you may have an over fueling situation going on where the motor is being provided more fuel than it can efficiently burn, resulting in the raw fuel smell you describe. This can happen for many different reasons...
Can the electric power steering pump on a 2005 Mini Cooper affect loss in power, radio, odometer, and other electric problems?
You may potentially have an electrical short or voltage problem (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electric-problems-inspection) that may be affecting all of these components. As you know, the power steering is electric in your vehicle, so if there is a voltage problem, this may impact...
2011 f150 ecoboost 3.5 overheating while towing 6500 lbs trailer up parleys, what could the issue be? Instantly cools when off gas
Hi there. You are correct in assuming that many turbo-powered F-150's have issues with intercoolers wearing out - especially when they are put under significant loads and hill climbing as you've described. To be honest, most automotive manufacturers never assume...

Related articles

2012 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander: Which One Should I Buy?
Large SUVs are a huge and broad market, with a range of different offerings from economy to luxurious. The majority of the SUVs and crossover SUVs offer decent gas mileage, plenty of room for friends and family to ride along...
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Dodge Durango: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are a fun class of vehicle: not only are they great for carpools and moving around friends and family, but you can also get them off-road and just get dirty and have fun with them. These...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Cruise Control Vacuum Bleed Switch
Common signs include cruise control disengaging on its own or not disengaging when the pedal is pressed, and a hissing noise coming from the dash.