I have a 2008 Outlander XLS. Never stood outside the vehicle before starting it until someone else started it for me the other day. I noticed that when the ignition is turned on just before cranking the vehicle I hear a click click click click noise which almost sounds like the injectors are firing up. It stops after 5 seconds or so. Is this normal?

 

Yup it's normal we'll for the 4g series Mitsi motors, if noticed all the GDI fly by wire TBodies do it,might be some sort of self calibrating or priming system given they run on very high fuel pressure

 

Interesting. I know that VW likes to activate the fuel pump when you open the drivers door. Thanks for the info.

 

08 XLS would have the 6B31 3.0L. I've never noticed the ticking, but I'd assume fuel system priming.

Only other thing that'd click rapidly would be the starter if the battery was low. If you have the OEM battery, you might want to check the fluid level to make sure you aren't low on water.

 

Coworker just bought a brand new RVR and I noticed his does this as well. Crisis avoided.