Hello everyone! My wife's grandfather has a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe with the 4cyl.
It's making a VERY loud ticking noise. It's louder than most engine knocks. It also has absolutely no power. However, the engine runs very smooth. Way too smooth to be knocking or out of time. It starts right up and idles at about 1000 RPMs. It's probably one of the smoothest running engines I've ever seen.
He has been led to believe the problem is with the timing belt tensioner. I personally would think that if the tensioner were bad, it would've jumped time by now, but like I said it runs way too smooth for that. Any input is appreciated thank you all!

 

Check the compression on the cylinders
Or try a can of Restore (engine restorer and lubricant)

 

Ticking noise and loud knocking noise are 2 different things.No power,but smooth,and how about smoking at start-ups? Timing belt tensioner has nothing to do with engine power,when timing is right. Give some more clues.