{"id":94562,"date":"2023-10-13T03:38:20","date_gmt":"2023-10-13T10:38:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=94562"},"modified":"2025-05-14T09:06:55","modified_gmt":"2025-05-14T16:06:55","slug":"what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"What Causes Lifter Tick? Plus Other FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-b7afe4  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-6dbf6d\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading94562_19f62d-91\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Some of the common causes of lifter tick include a damaged lifter, loose spark plugs, and exhaust leaks.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A lifter tick is a tapping or &ldquo;ticking&rdquo; noise from the hydraulic valve lifter, a cylinder connected to the hydraulic valve.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fixing a lifter tick can cost anywhere from $30 to $2,500, depending on the cause.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sitting between the camshaft and the cylinder valves, the lifter is responsible for opening the valve whenever the camshaft moves. There are two main types of lifters, namely the hydraulic lifter and the mechanical lifter.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Strange noises from your vehicle could be signs of various problems, so don&rsquo;t ignore them. Determine their source, assess the situation, and implement the repairs or part replacements needed to address the problem. One frequently reported noise in older and high-mileage vehicles is the lifter tick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is a Lifter Tick?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A lifter tick is a tapping or &ldquo;ticking&rdquo; noise from the hydraulic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/valve-lifter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"valve lifter\">valve lifter<\/a>, a cylinder connected to the hydraulic valve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Causes Lifter Tick?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How to solve a lifter tick depends on what&rsquo;s causing it. Here are some of the problems that could trigger this unusual sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Damaged or Misaligned Lifter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A damaged lifter can&rsquo;t move as it should, preventing the valve from opening and creating a ticking sound. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this issue is by replacing the damaged lifter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the lifter is simply misaligned, realigning it could resolve the lifter tick. Make sure it&rsquo;s neither too tight nor too loose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Loose Spark Plugs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"spark plugs\">spark plugs<\/a> aren&rsquo;t secured properly, exhaust gases might enter the engine instead of going out of the combustion chamber. This causes an exhaust leak that could sound like a tick. Retightening the spark plugs usually fixes this issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/bad-spark-plug-symptoms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"plugs are faulty\">plugs are faulty<\/a>, you might need to replace them. Doing so should let the exhaust gases out via the internal combustion engine. It also ensures they properly sit on top of the internal combustion engine, limiting the chances of misfires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exhaust Leaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Exhaust leaks can cause a lifter tick-like sound, and the sound could be more audible at low engine rotations per minute (RPMs), especially if the leak is in the manifold or gasket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/exhaust-manifold-gasket-problems-symptoms-and-what-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"faulty gasket\">faulty gasket<\/a>, an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-if-your-exhaust-manifold-is-leaking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust manifold crack\">exhaust manifold crack<\/a>, or a failed flange can cause exhaust leaks. One way to spot a leak is to look for black soot, which usually covers the area around the leak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Misaligned Valve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The valve train in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/cylinder-head\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"cylinder head\">cylinder head<\/a> is responsible for opening and closing the valve. It only opens when the exhaust valve closes, allowing the air to get in through the intake valve and letting the exhaust gases out of the combustion chamber through the exhaust valve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Lack of maintenance could cause misalignment, which makes it difficult for the valve to open and close. This results in the clicking sound coming from the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bent Pushrod<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some older car models have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/pushrod\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"pushrods\">pushrods<\/a> used in overhead valve engines to transfer motion from the camshaft to the valves. The rod could bend when damage or another component causes it to, leading to a malfunctioning lifter and engine tick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contaminated Oil<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Oil lubricates the motor and lets it run efficiently. If it&rsquo;s dirty, its contaminants can obstruct the passage and restrict oil flow. This could prevent the lifter from maintaining the correct clearance for optimal operation, resulting in a ticking noise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fortunately, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-change-your-oil\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"replacing the oil regularly\">replacing the oil regularly<\/a> (per the owner&rsquo;s manual recommended interval or every six months) can prevent this problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides causing a lifter tick, contaminated oil can also give way to other issues, such as an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-type-of-damage-to-expect-from-an-overheating-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"overheating engine\">overheating engine<\/a>, poor fuel economy, and excessive smoke from the exhaust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Low-Oil Level<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Low levels of oil can also cause lifter tick due to inadequate lubrication. Without enough oil, certain components can grind together and create damaging friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular oil changes also work wonders in preventing this issue. You can also use oil additives to help clean engine components, keep them lubricated, and prevent lifter ticks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Incorrect Oil Type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Engines run on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/engine-oil-basics-sae-ratings-viscosity-additives-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"different types of oil\">different types of oil<\/a> to ensure smooth operation. If you want to change your oil type, make sure you choose one that&rsquo;s compatible with your ride and driving conditions. Otherwise, it won&rsquo;t work properly, causing issues like friction damage and lifter tick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you live somewhere with hot weather, get oil that&rsquo;s viscous for better performance. Likewise, opt for the opposite type if cold temperatures are common in your area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to upgrade your oil, consider adding additives to it. They can modify its viscosity level, prevent sludge, and slow down corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Lifter Tick?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of fixing a lifter tick ultimately depends on what&rsquo;s causing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, oil changes typically range between $30 and $100, while cleaning additives or dispersants go for as low as $7.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Expect to pay somewhere from $1,000 to $2,500 if you need to replace one or more lifters. For faulty spark plugs, new ones typically cost $100 to $500, depending on the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can You Drive With a Lifter Tick?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can still drive your vehicle while it has a lifter tick, but it&rsquo;s not recommended. Disregarding it can lead to more problems, such as engine failure and misfires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One way to prevent lifter tick is by using a good engine cleaner and getting an oil change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are the Lifters on a Car?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sitting between the camshaft and the cylinder valves, the lifter is responsible for opening the valve whenever the camshaft moves. Each cylinder valve has a separate lifter, allowing them to open at different times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lifters can vary in design, but most fall under two main types, namely the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hydraulic Lifters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Found in most modern vehicles, the hydraulic lifter uses pressurized oil to control the valve and reduce valve lash. Hydraulic lifters are self-adjusting, require less maintenance, and produce less noise than mechanical lifters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mechanical Lifters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The mechanical lifter is the traditional type you can find in most high-performance engines, given their impressive durability and precise valve control. This type has two subcategories: the solid lifters and the roller lifters.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The solid lifter is a solid metal cylinder that directly transfers the camshaft&rsquo;s movement to the rocker arm. Similarly, the roller lifter functions the same but consists of rollers that allow the cam to rotate smoothly over the top, producing less noise.<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Strange noises from your vehicle could be signs of various problems, so don&rsquo;t ignore them. Determine their source, assess the&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1651,"featured_media":94592,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3747],"tags":[1953],"ppma_author":[2607,3742],"class_list":{"0":"post-94562","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-engine","9":"tag-valve-lifter","10":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Causes Lifter Tick? Plus Other FAQs - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is your engine\u2019s hydraulic valve making a strange ticking noise? It might be a lifter tick, and here are its possible causes.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What Causes Lifter Tick? Plus Other FAQs - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Is your engine\u2019s hydraulic valve making a strange ticking noise? It might be a lifter tick, and here are its possible causes.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-10-13T10:38:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-05-14T16:06:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/looking-for-car-valve-lifter.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1333\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"CarParts.com Research Team, Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@https:\/\/twitter.com\/CarPartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"CarParts.com Research Team\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/what-causes-lifter-tick-plus-other-faqs\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"1651\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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