Hydraulic Lifter or Valve Lash Noise
Hydraulic lifter or valve lash noise often sounds like a fast tick from the top of the engine that follows engine RPM.
Can I Drive?
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Most Likely Causes
- 1
Collapsed or sticking hydraulic lifter
A lifter can lose its ability to maintain oil pressure and make a sharp ticking noise.
- 2
Incorrect valve lash
Engines with adjustable lash can tick if clearance is too loose.
- 3
Oil flow restriction to valvetrain
Sludge or restricted passages can keep oil from reaching lifters and cam followers.
- 4
Worn rocker arm or cam follower
Valvetrain wear can create ticking even when oil pressure is normal.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Locate the noise at the valve cover area
Use a mechanic's stethoscope to compare both banks or cylinder areas.
Tool: Mechanic's stethoscope
- 2
Check oil condition and service history
Dirty oil or long intervals can contribute to lifter sticking.
Tool: Clean rag
- 3
Verify lash or lifter operation where serviceable
Follow the service procedure for engines with adjustable valves or accessible lifters.
Tool: Service information, feeler gauge if applicable
How to Fix It
Change dirty oil and filter first when appropriate
If oil is dirty but pressure is normal, service the oil before deeper teardown.
Adjust valve lash if the engine uses adjustable valves
Set clearance to specification on engines designed for adjustment.
Replace confirmed failed lifter or valvetrain component
Replace the lifter, follower, rocker, or cam part that fails inspection.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not pour in additives to hide a lifter tick without checking oil pressure and oil condition.
- Do not adjust valves on an engine that uses non-adjustable hydraulic lifters.
- Do not ignore a tick that changes into a knock or appears with an oil pressure warning.