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Engine Knocking or Ticking Noise: Causes and What to Do

Engines hum. They shouldn't knock. A new noise from under the hood deserves a quick check before it becomes an expensive one.

By NewGen Auto Repair, Santa Ana · Updated October 22, 2026

Check the oil first

Low or old oil is the most common cause of ticking and knocking. Park on level ground, wait a few minutes and check the dipstick. If it's low, top it up and get the car looked at — an engine shouldn't be using a lot of oil.

Ticking that speeds up with RPM

  • Valve lifters or tappets, often from low oil pressure
  • An exhaust manifold leak (louder when cold)
  • Normal injector noise on some direct-injection engines

Knocking or pinging under acceleration

  • Spark knock (detonation) — wrong fuel octane, carbon buildup or ignition problems

Deep knocking from the bottom of the engine

  • Rod knock — a worn connecting rod bearing. This is serious. Stop driving and have the car towed; continuing can destroy the engine.

What we do

We start with a computer scan (free at NewGen**), check oil level and pressure, listen with diagnostic tools and give you a written estimate.

FAQ

Can I drive with a knocking engine?

If it's a deep, rhythmic knock that gets louder with RPM, stop driving — it may be rod knock. A light tick after a cold start is usually less urgent, but still get it checked.

This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Rules and policies change — check your policy and the official source, or ask us.

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*Deductible assistance of up to $1,000 is available only on insurance claims where your insurance company has approved a repair amount of $8,000 or more and the repair is performed in accordance with that insurer-approved estimate (California Penal Code § 551(b)). We never increase a repair estimate to cover a deductible. Not available on customer-pay repairs. Ask us for details before your repair begins.

**Free computer diagnostic scan: we read and explain your vehicle's trouble codes at no charge, no purchase required. If the problem needs in-depth testing (labor), we give you a written estimate and get your approval before any paid work, as California law requires.

†Warranty: limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle; 24 months / 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) on mechanical repairs, parts and labor. Not covered: normal wear, new damage, abuse or neglect, rust or chips from road debris, and customer-supplied parts. Warranty terms are written on your invoice.

‡Accident towing: you pay nothing out of pocket when you have collision coverage or the other driver is at fault — we pay the tow and bill the insurance company. If no insurance covers the tow, we tell you the price before the truck is sent.

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