Why do the engines on most cars tick after its turned off?

 

You taking about the sounds of expanding and contracting metal?
Parts like heat shields are formed from stamped metal...pinch welds, etc...so the diffent parts kinda creak or tink as the expand and contract....

If the sound you are talking about is more of a mechanical sound, I'd bet the emissions system...opening valves, applying vacuum to the tank, etc...lots of stuff goes on..

 

the different temperatures of various metals all coming back to a resting place.


aluminum expands faster than steel, also contracts faster

 

Don't most people make funny sounds when they change temperature rapidly as well?

 

I think so!

 

Well...
My wife says my emissions system has issues...when resting, I sometimes make sounds....
Guess I am not a PZEV person!! No check engine light though!!

 

To help ease the mind of the OP and to get back on subject, the 'ticking' sound usually is emanating from the front end of the exhaust system.

 

ohhhhhhh k