The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

2017 Mustang GT 5.0L Coyote - Persistent Engine Tick Noise

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:32 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Mustang GT

Hello everyone, I have a 2017 Ford Mustang GT with the 5.0L Coyote engine, and I've been hearing a persistent ticking noise from the engine. It's most noticeable when the engine is warm, and it seems to get a bit louder under light load or when cruising. It's not super loud, but it's definitely there and consistent.

It sounds like it's coming from the passenger side of the engine, but it's hard to pinpoint exactly. I've heard about 'Coyote tick' online, but I'm not sure if this is what I'm experiencing. The car runs perfectly fine, no loss of power, no check engine light, and oil levels are good. Any insights or similar experiences?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:32 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The 'Coyote tick' you're describing in your 2017 Mustang GT 5.0L is a widely discussed phenomenon among owners of these engines, particularly the Gen 2 (2015-2017) and Gen 3 (2018+) versions. While often benign, it's important to understand its potential causes.

Common Causes:

  1. Piston Slap (Minor): The most common benign cause is often attributed to piston slap, where the pistons have a slightly looser fit in the cylinders, leading to a light ticking sound, especially when warm. This is generally considered normal for these engines and doesn't indicate a fault.
  2. Fuel Injector Noise: Direct injection engines inherently have louder fuel injectors. The high-pressure operation of the injectors can produce a ticking sound that can be mistaken for an internal engine issue.
  3. Valvetrain Components: Less commonly, issues with valve lash adjusters (lifters) or cam followers can cause ticking. However, this often presents as a louder, more irregular tick and might be accompanied by a Check Engine Light (P030x for misfires) if severe.
  4. Exhaust Leaks: A small exhaust leak, especially near the manifold, can sometimes mimic an engine tick.

What to Do:

  1. Isolate the Sound: Use a mechanic's stethoscope (or a long screwdriver to your ear) to try and pinpoint the exact source of the sound. Listen to different areas of the valve covers, block, and exhaust manifolds.
  2. Oil Type/Level: Ensure you're using the correct oil viscosity (typically 5W-20 or 5W-30 as per your owner's manual) and that the oil level is consistently full. Low oil can exacerbate valvetrain noise.
  3. Professional Opinion: If you're concerned, have a Ford technician listen to the engine. They are familiar with the normal operating sounds of the Coyote engine and can differentiate between a normal characteristic and a developing issue.

When to See a Shop:

If the tick is consistent, doesn't change with RPM, and you have no other symptoms (CEL, power loss, rough idle), it's likely the normal Coyote tick. However, you should see a shop if:

  • The ticking becomes significantly louder or changes in character.
  • A Check Engine Light illuminates (especially with misfire codes like P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, P0308).
  • You experience any loss of power, rough running, or increased oil consumption.

These could indicate a more serious underlying issue with the valvetrain or other internal components that needs immediate attention.

Menu

Help & account