Very slow clicking noise at idle

80ECLT · January 2, 2020

I have a 2016 silverado 5.3. I've had the truck since new. I have put about 80,000 miles on it and I have always heard a very slow clicking noise while idling. It clicks about one time every 3 seconds. Doesnt matter id the engine is hot or cold, its the same. Its mainly heard at a drive thru or when standing outside of the truck. Its not a fast clicking like injectors or vac pump. If I rev it just higher than idle the sound goes away. Has anyone else heard this sound or know whats causing it? I assume its normal because I haven't had any issues but Id like to know the source or at least and or confirm its a normal operating noise.

davester · January 2, 2020

Since it happens all the time, can't you narrow down where the clicking sound is coming from?

BlancoSilverado · January 2, 2020

From what people have said about the 2019 models, it might be the high pressure fuel pump in the motor.

Mozzer · January 3, 2020

I have what sounds like the same thing, didn't start until recently though. 2014 with 110,000 kms. Mine sounds like middle of driver side near the top but I can't pinpoint it with the stethoscope. Again it isn't constant like one click per rpm, more random & might do a couple of ticks at a time or just one every few seconds.

2014, 5.3, 4x4, work truck

Beltron462 · January 6, 2020

I was told by my dealer it was the fuel injector and normal on my 17.

Edited January 6, 2020 by Beltron462

Mozzer · January 6, 2020

I was told by my dealer it was the fuel injector and normal on my 17.

Like every other issue they don't want to or can't fix 'it's normal' [emoji53]

2014, 5.3, 4x4, work truck

nluchau · January 6, 2020

Same on my 2016 with 41k miles.

Brenthaylett · February 3, 2020

I've read about the high pressure pumps making noise like that because of the direct injection in these newer trucks. Mine does it too, but seems to be about about every second. I'm a little concerned it may be a lifter in my case.

Mike1989 · April 4, 2022

I just bought a used 2021 5.3L and mine makes that tick or click sound about every second. It doesn’t matter if it’s warmed up of cold. It does it all the time. And even if I rev the engine, it doesn’t seem to change. Has anyone figured this out yet? I about to take it to the dealership since it’s still under warranty.

capsitan · June 18, 2023

5.3L 2018 and I hear a click about every 3 seconds at idle. Has anyone figured this out? I have an appt at the dealer and wil update when they tell me the source/cause.

capsitan · June 18, 2023

On 1/5/2020 at 6:51 PM, Beltron462 said:

I was told by my dealer it was the fuel injector and normal on my 17.

Shouldn't fuel injector ticking be fast clicking?

davester · June 19, 2023

Yes, injectors will be much faster than every 3 seconds. I would suggest using a mechanics stethoscope and finding the source of the ticking yourself.