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Persistent Ticking Noise on Cold Start - 2018 Ram 1500 Hemi

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie

Hey everyone, I've got a 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie with the 5.7L Hemi, and I've noticed a persistent ticking noise, especially when I first start it up in the morning or after it's been sitting for a while. It seems to quiet down a bit once the engine warms up, but it's still noticeable.

I'm worried this might be a common issue I've heard about with the exhaust manifold bolts. Has anyone else experienced this with their Ram? What was the fix, and how much did it cost you? I'm trying to figure out if this is something I need to address immediately or if it can wait a bit.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

This is indeed a very common issue with the 5.7L Hemi engine in Ram trucks, particularly with the exhaust manifold bolts. The ticking sound you're hearing is almost certainly due to one or more broken exhaust manifold bolts, allowing exhaust gases to leak. The sound is more pronounced when cold because the metal components are contracted, creating a larger gap for the leak.

Here's what you should know and do:

  1. Causes: The primary cause is the design of the exhaust manifold bolts themselves, which are prone to breaking due to thermal expansion and contraction cycles. The rear bolts on both sides are most commonly affected.
  2. Diagnosis: A mechanic can confirm this by visually inspecting the exhaust manifolds for missing or broken bolts, often identifiable by rust streaks or soot around the manifold gasket.
  3. Impact: While not immediately catastrophic, a persistent exhaust leak can lead to:
    • Reduced engine efficiency.
    • Increased noise.
    • Potential for exhaust fumes to enter the cabin.
    • In rare cases, it could trigger an oxygen sensor code (P0420 or P0430) if the leak is severe enough to affect sensor readings.
  4. Repair: The repair involves replacing the broken bolts and often the exhaust manifold gaskets. Sometimes, the broken bolt studs need to be extracted from the cylinder head, which can be labor-intensive. It's recommended to replace all manifold bolts with upgraded, stronger aftermarket bolts (e.g., stainless steel or specific high-strength alloys) to prevent future failures.
  5. When to See a Shop: You should get this inspected relatively soon. While not an emergency, addressing it prevents potential further damage or more complex repairs down the line. A reputable shop specializing in Ram trucks will have the right tools and experience for bolt extraction if necessary. Costs can vary widely depending on how many bolts are broken and the complexity of extraction, typically ranging from $500 to $1500 per side.
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