Why is my Dodge Durango making a clicking sound?
A clicking noise in a Dodge Durango is most often caused by a worn CV joint, a loose heat shield, or a brake/axle issue. Engine-related ticking or exhaust rattling can also produce a similar sound under certain conditions.
Common sources of a clicking sound
Understanding where the noise originates helps narrow down the culprit. Listen for the noise when turning, accelerating, braking, or idling, and note whether it seems to come from the front or rear of the vehicle.
Drivetrain and suspension: CV joints and axles
A classic reason for a sharp clicking when you turn is a worn outer CV joint or a torn CV boot. The CV joint allows the wheels to pivot while the suspension moves, and boots keep grease inside. If the boot is cracked or leaking, the joint can fail and produce a clicking or popping sound, especially at low speeds or during sharp turns.
- Outer CV joint wear or torn CV boot
- Loose or damaged drive shaft components or CV axle play
- Front differential issues (in AWD models) that cause intermittent clicking
What you should do: if you hear this when turning or accelerating through corners, inspect the CV boots for tears and listen for a wheel-side click. A failed CV joint usually needs replacement.
Engine, exhaust, and under-hood sources
Not all clicks come from the wheels. A loose heat shield around the exhaust or a rattling exhaust component can create a sharp click that coincides with engine RPM or road speed. Engine-related ticking or valve-train noises can also resemble a click, especially at certain RPM or temperatures.
- Loose heat shield or exhaust hanger clicking against the exhaust or frame
- Exhaust leak or loose clamp causing a tapping sound
- Engine lifter/tappet or valve-train tick (more noticeable at idle or cold start)
- Direct-injection fuel injector tick (common on some engines; usually light and rhythmic)
Tip: check under the hood and along the exhaust path for loose shields, clamps, or rattling debris. If the noise seems tied to engine speed, a compression test or valve inspection may be needed.
What you can do to diagnose the noise
To avoid unnecessary repairs, follow these steps to pinpoint the source without driving aggressively if you hear grinding or a heavy impact noise.
- Reproduce the sound and note when it happens: during turning, accelerating, braking, idle, or at specific speeds.
- Inspect visible components: CV boots for tears, boot grease near the wheel, brake calipers, and heat shields.
- Check for exhaust components that might be loose or touching the frame.
- Record a short clip of the sound and share with a mechanic for reference.
- Consult service bulletins or a dealer to see if your model/year has known issues related to your noise.
If you are unsure or the noise worsens, schedule a professional inspection promptly to prevent potential damage or unsafe driving conditions.
When to seek professional help
Immediate attention is advised if the sound is accompanied by vibration, a loss of power, grinding, or if you notice any warning lights. Some noises can indicate issues that could affect steering, braking, or stability.
- Persistent or worsening clicking that occurs under load or while turning
- Grinding, clunking, or loss of steering control
- Grease or fluid leaks near the wheel or under the engine bay
Bottom line: a clicking Durango should not be ignored, especially if it changes with speed, location, or temperature. A trained mechanic can confirm the exact source and recommend the right repair.
Summary
Clicking noises on a Dodge Durango are most often caused by drivetrain components like a worn CV joint, by a loose heat shield, or by brake or exhaust issues. Engine-related ticks can also mimic a click. Start with a careful self-check and listen for the noise's source and conditions, but seek professional help if the sound persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vibration or braking concerns. Regular maintenance and timely part replacement typically prevent further damage and keep your Durango safe on the road.
Why is my car making a strange clicking sound?
Battery or Alternator Fault
There's probably something wrong with your car's electrical system if you hear a lot of clicking sounds. The issue may be caused by several things, but the biggest culprit is often a dead battery or an alternator that can't keep it charged.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Durangos?
Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are common in 2021-2025 Dodge Durango models. Many owners report hard shifting, transmission slipping, and overheating.
Why is my Dodge making a clicking noise?
A clicking noise near the driver's door area often indicates a failing idler pulley or belt tensioner. The oil light flickering during transmission downshifts may stem from engine oil pressure fluctuations caused by worn bearings or a weak oil pump. Inspect the idler pulley for play or damage and replace if needed.
Why is my Durango making a ticking sound?
A ticking noise from a Dodge Durango can be caused by issues like low oil levels, worn valve lifters or rocker arms, or a leaking exhaust system. Other possibilities include a faulty fuel injector or, in HEMI engines, a known "Hemi tick" related to the valvetrain. It's important to diagnose the cause, as some issues can lead to serious engine damage if left unaddressed.
Common causes of ticking noise
- Low oil level or poor lubrication: This is a common cause. Low oil means components aren't lubricated properly, creating friction and noise.
- Check: Check your oil level and top it off if low. If it's constantly low, there may be a leak or oil consumption issue that needs to be addressed.
- Action: If the oil level is fine, a full oil change with high-quality oil might resolve the issue, especially if sludge is present from infrequent changes.
- Worn valve lifters or rocker arms: These are frequent culprits for ticking, especially in engines like the 3.6L Pentastar.
- Check: A mechanic can use a stethoscope to pinpoint the noise to a specific lifter or rocker arm.
- Action: Worn lifters or rocker arms may need to be replaced to prevent further damage to the camshaft.
- Leaking exhaust manifold: A small leak in the exhaust system, particularly at the manifold, can produce a ticking sound that may get louder when the engine is cold.
- "Hemi tick": Certain 5.7L HEMI engines are known for a ticking noise. While the cause is debated, it often points to a valvetrain issue like a worn rocker arm or camshaft lobe.
- Faulty fuel injector: A clicking sound can come from a fuel injector that is not working correctly.
What to do
- Check your oil: Before anything else, check the oil level and condition. Top off or change the oil as needed.
- Listen for characteristics: Pay attention to when the noise occurs.
- Cold vs. warm: A tick that is louder when the engine is cold might indicate an exhaust leak, while one that appears or worsens when warm often points to a lubrication issue with the valvetrain.
- Engine speed: A ticking noise that increases with engine RPM is likely related to moving parts like the lifters or rockers.
- Seek professional diagnosis: Given the variety of potential causes and the risk of serious engine damage, it is best to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the issue. They can use tools like a stethoscope to accurately pinpoint the source of the sound.
0:50#shorts Ticking Dodge Durango! Don't Ignore It, Fix It.YouTubeAlex The Car Doctor · 3y 0:12Any Idea what this Ticking Noise is? : r/DodgeDurangoRedditjiimmyd92 · 4mo 0:15BUY or AVOID? 2023 Dodge Durango Pentastar V6 TICKING? : r ...RedditMiles_High_Monster · 11mo 0:44Common Issues with Dodge V6 Engines: Ticking Sound SolutionsTikTokalexthecardoctor · 1y 0:10Can someone please help me figure out what this ticking sound is when I ...Redditashgaf1 · 4mo 0:04Ticking sound each morning : r/DodgeDurangoRedditAscLuna · 3mo 0:30Is this hemi tick already : r/DodgeDurangoRedditThePurist1906 · 1y 0:07Durango tapping noise : r/DodgeDurangoRedditConnectProgress2881 · 10mo 0:05Had this ticking noise for a while it sounds like rod knock but goes ...Redditphish_biscuit · 2y (function(){
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