Rapid ticking while driving

Hey all,

So I’m not sure what is a normal noise and what is not since I’m new to vehicles as overall noisy as a TJ. There’s one noise that I have not been able to figure out through research, not sure if it’s serious enough to require attention or if it’s just a noise these things make. It’s a 2006 unlimited 6 speed.

It can best be described as a very rapid “ticking” or tap. I saw one thread that referred to the noise as what it sounds like when a playing card is in the spokes of a bicycle. It’s sort of similar to that, but I would say even faster paced and much quieter than that. It’s hard to notice if you aren’t listening for it.

It seems to be coming from right under the passengers feet. I can’t exactly tell though, because it only happens at speeds over 15mph, and there is plenty of other noise going on. It does not seem to be dependent on RPM.

I’m attaching a video here. I’m really not sure if anyone will be able to hear it, you’d have to listen very closely, but I can hear it having experienced it in real life.

Anyone have any insight? Something I should worry about? The driving is not hindered at all. Not effect on power or anything like that.

That’s inter

Crom said:

How many miles are on the engine?

I do not hear a rapid ticking. I hear what sounds like rubbing, belt slipping or bearings starting to fail. Take a look at the serpentine belt. Worn, loose, very little tension? If so, replace it. While looking at the serpentine belt take a look at the idler pulley. With the belt off spin it by hand. Do you feel smooth bearing operation, no side-to-side movement? If anything is out of place you should replace the idler pulley.

Anytime I have heard the noise I hear in your video I change the belt and idler pulley. Idler pulley is cheap enough I just change it without much thought. Be sure the idler pulley bolt surfaces are in good shape when you change the pulley. Most times the noise is gone after I replace the belt and pulley. If not, I start looking into what else with bearings may be starting to fail.

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That’s interesting. I’m not sure how well the audio comes across on video but I’d have to drive it again to see if I notice what you’re talking about. Engine only has 57k on it