I recently purchased a 2016 F-150 XLT with the 2.7l twin-turbo engine (auto tranny, 4x4, 130k miles). I noticed a ticking/clicking noise coming from the engine that is in time with the RPMs (as the RPMs go up, the clicking speed increases). It happens 100% of the time - from cold-start, warm-start, while running - always. I tried using a long screwdriver to listen to different parts of the engine and determine from where the clicking was coming from, but couldn't determine any differences no matter where I placed the screwdriver. I took it to a mechanic I trust but he doesn't do internal engine repairs. He said it sounds like it is the lifters clicking and recommended I take it to the dealership. I took it to the dealership and they didn't think it was the lifters, but said it sounds like it's coming from the timing cover area and wanted 18 hours to tear it down and inspect the timing components. Then, I found an invoice in the glovebox from the prior owner who took it into a mechanic for "a noise in the front of the engine". The mechanic said the issue was a cam phazer noise, replaced all 4 cam phazers and all 4 cam phazer solenoids. He indicated on the invoice that the noise is better than it was but still audible on the left bank. You can see in the attached image the details of what was replaced. This work was done on the vehicle in 2021, at about 121.5k miles.
I've put about 700 miles on the truck since I bought it and haven't noticed any performance issues. There are no CEL or other indications of something wrong, just the sound (which can be heard while in the truck and driving). Here is a link to the engine running and you can hear the clicking/ticking noise. At about 1m10s the engine revs and you can hear how the clicking is in time with the RPMs.
I'm hoping to get some help with 1) identifying what the clicking/noise might be, 2) determine possible fix(es), 3) other options
Let me know if you have any questions or need further details. Any help is appreciated!
Have it checked for cracked or loose exhaust manifolds.
look in the FAQ for diagnosing engine noises. Use deduction, like Sherlock Holmes.
Remove serpentine belt... does the noise go away?
unplug injectors one by one .. .does the noise go away?
etc.
