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Need expert advice: ticking noise in engine

17K views 11 replies 5 participants last post by  kik 
#1 ·
I could use some expert advice on what to do with my 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (3.8 L, V6).

The engine developed a ticking noise en route at ~150,000 miles. The next day the low-engine oil dash light came on. I immediately took it in to our oil change place. The technician said there was about a quart of oil left and changed out the oil. No significant leaks were detected nor any observations about the oil being dirty or anything.

The Jeep has never had any noted issues with low oil in the past and was not due for an oil change yet. I double checked by putting a sheet underneath the vehicle in the driveway after driving it and there were no signs of oil dripping.

The ticking noise didn't go away and the engine then died the next day during low idle. It took a few minutes before it would re-start.

I took it to the local Jeep service center and the diagnosis was a new engine. I also took it for a second opinion and again the diagnosis was a new engine. However, I would prefer to have an actual diagnosis to know what specifically is wrong with the engine.

Here is a link to a video of the noise:
https://www.facebook.com/donna.kridelbaugh/videos/10153820385053977/

The ticking sound starts after the engine warms up for a bit and then seems to get a little louder on acceleration; it also seems to be more pronounced from underneath the vehicle (second half of video).

Does anyone have input on what might be the potential problem? Also how can I get an actual diagnosis of the engine issues from a mechanic? I would like to explore options such as engine rebuild vs. a new engine and whether it's worth fixing.

Any and all advice is much appreciated. My budget is super tight right now and I need to determine the most economical approach to dealing with the vehicle. Thanks for your time and input.
 
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#6 ·
There are a number of 3.8's that consume oil. The oil level, especially with a 3.8, should be checked at least every other fill up. Not checking the oil level and allowing the engine to run on approx. 1 qt. caused the problem. What happens, especially with JK engines, is that the oil pushes through the rings and is consumed. The cats burn the oil so you really won't see that something isn't normal. It sounds like you have upper and lower engine damage. You already have two opinions. There's no harm in having an additional opinion. To have an "actual" diagnosis the engine has to be broken down. A shop can't do that, unless you agree to a pre arranged fee. Tearing down an engine is usually a big job. At 150k miles you're probably better off with a remanufactured engine. Two shops are indicating that it's not worth a rebuild.
 
#10 ·
@kik, thanks for the input. It sounds like Jeeps should be sold with a disclaimer that says oil eater. We rely on our oil change technicians to report problems. We stand with them every time we get an oil change and ask how things are looking. They are really good at reporting back on whether oil seems low and what not, and nobody ever reported that it seemed like too much oil was consumed.

So if you can't afford a new engine, what would you do with the vehicle? Thanks again.
 
#12 ·
They actually do. Chrysler indicates that it's within their spec. for a 3.8 with over 50K miles to consume 1 qt. of oil every 750 miles. Under 50K miles, 1 qt. every 1,000 miles. Oil level really needs to be checked by the owner. Every other fill up is usually a good place to start. More often if necessary. Good luck with getting your Jk repaired.
 
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