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Why is my Subaru Outback making a ticking noise?

I have a 2017 Subaru, and I haven’t had any major issues with it, but recently I’ve noticed a weird ticking noise coming from what sounds like the engine. What is causing my Subaru Outback to make a ticking noise?

avatar
Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you hear unfamiliar noises from your car, it’s always best to stop and check them out. The most common cause of a Subaru Outback making a ticking noise is loose valves, worn injectors, or an exhaust leak.
Loose valves: The valves on the engine of a Subaru sit almost sideways to line up with the rest of the internals. If there isn’t enough space between components, it will impact the valves’ performance and noise levels. So, if you’re hearing a ticking noise from your valves, they may need to be tightened.
Worn injectors: Fuel injectors run using extremely high-pressure ratings, and when placed at an angle for the boxer configuration on a Subaru, it requires them to work even harder. This extra effort can lead to greater wear on the moving parts, which can develop into a ticking noise over time.
Exhaust leak: Because the layout of the boxer engine is different from most vehicles, the exhaust pipes coming off the manifold are exposed to extreme temperatures, which can result in the wearing of metal materials and, subsequently, an exhaust leak. The exhaust coming out of the holes typically makes a rhythmic ticking noise.
Keeping your Subaru Outback in good shape means keeping up with a regular
car maintenance schedule
—this is key to preventing an issue before it arises. In addition to routine maintenance, consider a comprehensive
car insurance
policy to protect it on the road.
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