2022-2023 Jeep/RAM Ticking Noise from Rocker Arm Assembly TSB

Owners of certain 2022-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, and RAM 1500 vehicles may notice an abnormal ticking noise coming from the engine. This issue is addressed in NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10247904, which provides diagnostic and repair guidance for technicians.

This manufacturer communication, also known as a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), specifically targets a ticking noise related to the rocker arm assembly. The information is crucial for proper diagnosis and repair, ensuring that the correct components are addressed.

Symptoms

Owners may experience an "abnormal ticking noise" originating from the engine. This noise can occur under various operating conditions, including:

• At low engine RPMs
• At high engine RPMs
• At low engine temperatures
• At high engine temperatures

Fault Codes / DTCs

It is important to note that this specific engine ticking noise condition will typically not present any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). This means a check engine light or other warning indicators will not illuminate, making diagnosis reliant on identifying the audible symptom.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Before replacing intake or exhaust rocker arms, technicians are advised to thoroughly inspect the intake Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLAs). The primary diagnostic step is to check if the "INTAKE Hydraulic Lash Adjusters are not 'collapsed'." A collapsed INTAKE HLA is the key indicator for this specific issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

If a collapsed INTAKE HLA is identified during diagnosis, the recommended repair is to replace all INTAKE HLAs on the affected cylinder head. This targeted replacement prevents unnecessary repairs to other components of the rocker arm assembly.

Important Note for Technicians and Owners

This TSB highlights a critical diagnostic step to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary part replacement. The communication explicitly states: "Before replacing the intake or exhaust rocker arms due to an abnormal ticking noise, please check that the INTAKE Hydraulic Lash Adjusters are not 'collapsed'." This guidance ensures that technicians focus on the root cause of the ticking noise, which is often the collapsed INTAKE HLA, rather than immediately replacing the entire rocker arm assembly.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, or RAM 1500 and are experiencing an abnormal ticking noise from your engine, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your authorized dealership. Inform them about the persistent ticking noise. While there are no DTCs associated with this issue, referring to NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10247904 may assist technicians in diagnosing the problem correctly, especially concerning the inspection of the INTAKE Hydraulic Lash Adjusters.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10247904