A ticking lifter in your engine can be an annoying and worrying sound. While it may not always indicate a serious issue, ignoring it could lead to long-term damage.
Fortunately, engine oil additives can help stop the lifter from ticking and improve overall engine performance.
In this post, we’ll explore the best engine oil additives to stop ticking lifter, how they work, and the factors you should consider when choosing one.
Engine Oil Additives to Stop Ticking Lifter
Here are some of the top-rated oil additives that can eliminate lifter ticking and improve engine performance.
1. Liqui Moly Hydraulic Lifter Additive
Best for: Cleaning and quieting hydraulic lifters
Features:
- Specifically designed to clean and restore lifter function
- Works well with all engine oils
- Reduces friction and wear
How It Works:
Liqui Moly’s additive dissolves sludge and varnish deposits in lifters, restoring their proper function and reducing noise.
Pros:
✅ Easy to use – simply pour into the oil
✅ Works on both gasoline and diesel engines
✅ Improves overall engine efficiency
Cons:
❌ May take time to show full effect
❌ Not suitable for heavily worn lifters
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2. Marvel Mystery Oil
Best for: Lubrication and sludge removal
Features:
- Reduces lifter noise by improving lubrication
- Cleans internal engine components
- Compatible with all motor oils
How It Works:
Marvel Mystery Oil improves the oil’s ability to flow through small engine passages, ensuring proper lubrication and reducing lifter noise.
Pros:
✅ Affordable and easy to use
✅ Works in both gas and diesel engines
✅ Helps prevent sludge buildup
Cons:
❌ Requires regular use for best results
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3. Rislone Engine Treatment
Best for: Preventing and treating lifter ticking
Features:
- Cleans and lubricates lifters and valves
- Helps prevent sludge formation
- Works with all motor oils
How It Works:
Rislone’s advanced formula breaks down carbon deposits and enhances oil circulation, preventing lifter noise.
Pros:
✅ Effective at reducing engine noise
✅ Improves overall oil performance
✅ Works in high-mileage engines
Cons:
❌ Might need multiple treatments for stubborn noise
4. Sea Foam Motor Treatment
Best for: Deep cleaning lifters and engine internals
Features:
- Cleans and lubricates hydraulic lifters
- Removes carbon deposits and varnish
- Can be used in oil, fuel, and intake systems
How It Works:
Sea Foam cleans out sludge and improves lubrication, restoring lifter performance and reducing noise.
Pros:
✅ Multi-purpose cleaner for the engine
✅ Safe for all engines
✅ Helps improve fuel economy
Cons:
❌ Needs consistent use for best results
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5. Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer
Best for: Increasing oil viscosity and lubrication
Features:
- Improves oil stability and film strength
- Reduces engine friction and noise
- Extends oil life
How It Works:
Lucas Oil Stabilizer enhances the oil’s ability to cling to engine components, reducing metal-on-metal contact and lifter ticking.
Pros:
✅ Works well for high-mileage engines
✅ Reduces wear and extends engine life
✅ Helps with cold starts
Cons:
❌ Thickens oil, which may not be ideal for some engines
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How to Use Oil Additives to Stop Lifter Ticking
Using an oil additive is simple. Follow these steps for the best results:
Step 1: Choose the Right Additive
Pick an additive based on your engine’s needs. If your lifters are dirty, go for a cleaner like Liqui Moly or Sea Foam. If you need better lubrication, try Lucas Oil Stabilizer.
Step 2: Add It to the Engine Oil
- Check your engine’s oil level before adding the additive.
- Pour the recommended amount directly into the engine oil.
- Run the engine for 10-15 minutes to circulate the additive.
Step 3: Monitor Performance
- Drive for a few hundred miles and check if the ticking noise reduces.
- If the noise persists, consider using another treatment or changing your oil and filter.
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What Is a Lifter in an Engine?
A lifter, also known as a hydraulic valve lifter or tappet, is a critical component of your engine’s valve train. It helps in opening and closing the engine’s valves by transferring motion from the camshaft to the pushrods and rocker arms.
Why Do Lifters Start Ticking?
Lifter ticking occurs when there is improper lubrication or clearance between the lifter and the camshaft.
- Low oil pressure – Insufficient oil pressure can prevent lifters from filling with oil properly.
- Dirty or clogged lifters – Sludge and debris can block oil flow, causing noise.
- Worn-out lifters – Over time, lifters wear out and may need replacement.
- Incorrect oil viscosity – Using oil with the wrong viscosity can lead to improper lubrication.
- Cold start issues – Some engines experience ticking during cold starts due to slow oil circulation.
Preventing Lifter Ticking in the Future
To avoid future lifter ticking issues, follow these maintenance tips:
- Use High-Quality Engine Oil: Always use manufacturer-recommended oil grades and high-quality brands.
- Change Oil Regularly: Stick to your car’s recommended oil change intervals to prevent sludge buildup.
- Use Additives Periodically: Adding a cleaner or stabilizer every few oil changes can keep lifters in good condition.
- Check Oil Levels Frequently: Low oil levels can cause lifter noise, so check your oil regularly.
- Warm Up Your Engine Properly: Let your engine warm up before driving, especially in cold weather.
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FAQs
What is the best oil additive to get rid of lifter tick?
The best oil additive to stop the lifter tick depends on the cause of the noise. Some of the most effective options include:
- Liqui Moly Hydraulic Lifter Additive – Cleans and quiets noisy lifters.
- Marvel Mystery Oil – Improves lubrication and removes sludge buildup.
- Rislone Engine Treatment – Cleans lifters and improves oil circulation.
- Sea Foam Motor Treatment – Removes varnish and carbon deposits in lifters.
- Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer – Increases oil viscosity and enhances lubrication.
Each of these additives works by cleaning, lubricating, or improving oil flow to eliminate lifter noise.
What will make a lifter stop ticking?
To stop a ticking lifter, try the following:
- Use a high-quality oil additive – that helps clean and lubricate lifters.
- Change your engine oil – Old or dirty oil can cause lifters to tick.
- Use the correct oil viscosity – Wrong viscosity can lead to poor lubrication.
- Check for low oil levels – Add oil if needed.
- Warm up the engine properly – Cold starts can cause temporary lifter ticking.
- Replace worn-out lifters – If additives and oil changes don’t work, you may need new lifters.
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What frees sticky lifters?
If a lifter is sticking due to sludge or varnish buildup, try these methods:
- Sea Foam Motor Treatment – Dissolves carbon and sludge in the engine.
- Liqui Moly Hydraulic Lifter Additive – Cleans lifters and improves oil circulation.
- Marvel Mystery Oil – Helps loosen and free sticky lifters.
- High-mileage synthetic oil – Contains detergents that can help clean deposits.
Running the engine for 10-15 minutes after adding an additive helps circulate it and free up sticky lifters.
Will thicker oil get rid of lifter tick?
Thicker oil may reduce lifter tick in some cases, especially in high-mileage engines with worn components. However, using oil that’s too thick can reduce oil flow and cause more harm than good. Always use the manufacturer-recommended oil viscosity for the best results.
Can lifter tick damage your engine?
A mild lifter tick isn’t immediately harmful, but ignoring it for too long can lead to:
- Increased wear and tear – Poor lubrication can damage engine parts.
- Reduced performance – Sticky lifters can affect valve timing.
- Potential engine failure – If the issue worsens, it may cause serious damage.
If the tick is loud, persistent, or getting worse, it’s best to have a mechanic inspect the engine.
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Will lifter tick go away after an oil change?
In many cases, a fresh oil change can reduce or eliminate lifter tick, especially if the ticking is caused by dirty or low oil. Using high-quality synthetic oil and an oil additive can further help quiet lifters.
How expensive is it to fix a lifter tick?
The cost depends on the severity of the problem:
- Oil change + additive – $30–$100
- Professional lifter cleaning – $150–$300
- Replacing lifters – $300–$1,500+ (including labor)
If the issue is severe and requires extensive repairs, the cost can rise significantly.
Do spark plugs cause lifter tick?
No, spark plugs do not directly cause lifter ticks. However, a misfiring spark plug can sometimes create a sound that resembles a lifter tick. If your engine is running rough along with the ticking noise, checking the spark plugs might be a good idea.
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Final word
Using engine oil additives to stop ticking lifters is an effective way to restore engine performance and prevent costly repairs.
For long-term engine health, always use the right oil, change it on time, and consider using an oil additive periodically.
