The 5.3L, 6.2L and 6.6L V8 engines (RPO L84, L87, L8T) available in 2019-2026 Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, Tahoe, Suburban, Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500HD/3500HD, Yukon and Escalade models may have a tick, tap or “typewriter” noise when the engine is idling. (Fig. 16)
Fig. 16
The tick sound, which may be more noticeable when the engine oil is cold (following a cold soak), can last up to 10 minutes before subsiding. Frequency also can vary with engine speed and from vehicle to vehicle. The sound is typically most audible from the front wheel well area (Fig. 17) and may be localized to the transmission bell housing or oil pan region.
Fig. 17
Refer to Bulletin #26-NA-021 for examples of the audible sound from a normally operating engine. The tick sound does not indicate any mechanical malfunction and does not adversely affect engine performance, reliability or durability. It is a normal operating characteristic of these V8 engines and has no short- or long-term impact on engine operation.
Do not perform any diagnostic procedures or repairs to the engine for a normal tick sound condition.
Refer to Bulletin #26-NA-021 for additional information.
– Thanks to Bryan Salisbury
