Ridgecrest Auto Repair

If you’ve ever owned a HEMI-powered vehicle, you may have heard the infamous “lifter tick” — that persistent tapping sound coming from the top of the engine. For many drivers of Chrysler HEMI-equipped trucks and cars, it’s a topic that sparks both curiosity and concern. Lifter tick typically comes from worn or failing hydraulic lifters inside the engine. In HEMI engines, particularly the 5.7L variants, this issue is often connected to the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which deactivates cylinders under light load to improve fuel efficiency. Over time, lubrication issues, worn camshafts, or faulty needle bearings in the lifters can create that noticeable ticking sound. At first, the noise may seem minor — just a faint tap at idle. But if left unaddressed, it can lead to more serious engine damage, including camshaft wear or complete lifter failure. Early diagnosis is key. Catching the problem quickly can mean the difference between a targeted repa ... read more