Compare Subaru ticking or rattling noise repair quotes from specialist garages

Subaru is known for using the innovative boxer engine, named for the horizontal movement of the pistons - almost like a boxer throwing punches. The flat layout of this engine provides better fuel efficiency, and its low centre of gravity makes it more responsive.

In the 2020 Driver Power Survey, Subaru was voted the best manufacturer for safety features for the second year running. And it isn't just cars that Subaru manufactures - it also has an aerospace division that develops and creates parts for planes, including Boeing's 777 and 787 passenger jets.

Ticking and rattling are two closely related noises you might hear from your car. If you listen closely to where the sound is coming from and when it happens (while accelerating, for instance), you might be able to work out the cause.

The first thing to check is whether the engine oil is low, requiring a top-up - this is the best-case scenario. If your car is rattling and the sound is coming from the engine, it could be caused by a loose serpentine belt or timing chain. From the car's rear, it might be a loose exhaust or a broken catalytic converter, and the other possibility is worn suspension, which can cause rattling from the front or rear of the vehicle.

Possible explanations for ticking include worn spark plugs, knocking engine rods, dirty valve lifters and misaligned valves. You can learn more about these issues here.

Ticking and rattling noises should be taken seriously as they sometimes indicate a problem with the engine that could cause further damage if ignored.