☰
GET A QUOTE

Q: Why is something in the hood of my car ticking?

asked by on August 11, 2016

Recently got the car taken in for a check up and oil change, we are now on the road for a 800 mile trip from Chicago to Tuskegee and the oil light came on. Checked the Manual and it said that meant there was low oil so we added a half a quart. Got back on the road light came back on, added the other half of court. Then the car began making a ticking noise. We let it rest and the ticking noise settled.. But what could it be? Why? And what do we do if it turns back on?

My car has 160000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Recommended Services

Oil level is low Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Noise from engine or exhaust Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Oil/Fluid Leak Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Warning Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Or For Any Other Auto Repairs Get a Quote

You need to check the oil level to see how low you are on oil. You may not have added enough oil. If you are not sure then go to a full service station or have a technician, like one from YourMechanic check it for you. Do not drive the vehicle with the motor ticking or you will cause damage to the engine. I’d also suggest looking under the car to see if you see oil leaking somewhere also.

If you need some help with this, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can come to you and help you diagnose the cause of the oil light firsthand.

Chrysler
Noises
warning lights
2007
oil
Aspen
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

How do I change the radio station using the steering wheel controls?
The steering wheel controls allow you to adjust the sound system without ever taking your hands off of the wheel. The controls are on the back of the steering wheel, with switches on each side. When the radio is on,...
Read more
How do I use the Vehicle Personalization feature?
One neat feature of the vehicle is the Vehicle Personalization feature. With this, you can set certain features around the truck to your specifications. This makes the truck easier to use for that driver. Unlike the seat memory feature, the...
Read more
gas pedal problem
It sounds like you have a problem with your pedal position sensor or throttle position sensors. Using a scan tool, test the pedal position sensor by reading the output of the sensor as you slowly press down on the pedal....
Read more
Multiple sensor error codes
Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. For a all of the problems to occur all at once and make the cruise control and A/C quit, too, this is likely going to be a wiring issue. First check the condition of...
Read more
Code p0700
Hello. The code you are receiving stands for a transmission control malfunction. This can occur when the transmission control module, shift solenoids (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/downshift-solenoid-replacement), wiring (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electric-problems-inspection), or valve body damage has occurred. Typically a serious enough error will cause the vehicle...
Read more
Oil leaking engine won't hold oil but car starts
As you know, an oil leak can range from somewhat minor to very serious depending on the location of the leak and how quickly it is leaking. I would recommend not starting the car at all until getting this leak...
Read more
I have a 2002 ford focus 1.6 zetec it died when I was driving I have replace the coil pack and checked fuses and have no spark
Hi there. Sometimes when oil splatters under the hood, it can and often will cause damage to electrical harnesses and connections that control many ignition system components. The most common is the crankshaft position or cam position sensor. If these...
Read more
My cars ac drains heavily, sometimes inside the car if its been on, theres high low-side pressure and poor cooling
It sounds like you may have a faulty AC Compressor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ac-compressor-replacement) or potentially a leak in the AC lines somewhere. Car air conditioners work on a simple principle of heat transfer, relying on the fact that heat will always transfer...
Read more
Rough idle speed in cold weather and no heat in cab
When the engine is cold, the engine coolant temperature sensor must be working properly to signal the PCM to enrich the mixture on cold start. If there is a fault with that sensor, you can experience rough idle idle as...
Read more

Related articles

Can You Switch Between Regular and Synthetic Motor Oil?
If you have ever wondered if you can switch between regular and synthetic motor oil, you need to consider what type of oil works best for your engine.
Read more
How Does Oil Lubricate an Engine?
Oil is an essential fluid in your car engine. Motor oil lubricates engine parts and prevents car overheating. Changing oil helps extend engine life.
Read more
How to Troubleshoot a Clicking or Popping Sound in Car Wheels
Car wheels make popping or clicking noises due to faulty CV joints, worn struts or drive belts, loose hubcaps, cupped tires, or loose suspension.
Read more

Browse other content

Cars
Cities
Services
Estimates