2016 BMW 328i Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2016 BMW 328i Engine and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
12% chance it's the
Exhaust Leak
0%
88% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 BMW 328i engine makes a ticking noise are low oil level or pressure, an issue with the ignition system, or an exhaust leak.
  • Exhaust Leak: A damaged or corroded exhaust system component can create an exhaust leak, resulting in increased noise and potential loss of engine power.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 BMW 328i engine makes a ticking noise?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the drive belt tensioner fails, there will be a very audible chirping, grinding, or rattling noise from the front of the engine. This is because the tensioner pulley bearing is no longer smooth, and rotating causes metal to grind at high speeds. If it is not changed immediately, there is a chance it will become dislodged, or allow the drive belt to lose tension, or break. If the belt falls off, the accessory that it drives will no longer function. Also, if the tensioner spring fails, allowing slack in the belt, it may make an extremely loud squeaking or screeching noise combined with a rattle as the tensioner bounces back and forth under load. The squealing noise is the belt slipping on the crankshaft pulley, and will require belt replacement once the belt tensioner is replaced.

An engine leaking oil does not always make a puddle on the ground. A burning smell may be noticed from the front of the vehicle after driving. This is because engine oil leaks may fall onto hot engine components, especially the exhaust manifold, and burn off before making it to the ground. This poses a risk to the engine because the leak going unnoticed may deplete the engine oil reserve, and lead to an oil starvation issue. Some engine oil leaks only occur while the engine is running, so the leak may be larger than the small spot on the ground makes it seem.

Noises can be accompanied by many annoying or worrisome sensations. Consider the noise of grinding brakes, the noise sounds much like the brake pedal and steering wheel feel. This is important, as random noises can be difficult to replicate without knowing when the sound occurs, what must be done to make the sound, and what sound it is. Any professional technician can replicate and diagnose most noises, but to ensure the vehicle is more quickly diagnosed, make sure you tell your technician these three pieces of information.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 BMW 328i?

When it comes to the ticking noise in your 2016 BMW 328i, understanding the urgency of addressing the problem is crucial for both safety and vehicle longevity. If the noise stems from low oil levels or pressure, immediate action is necessary to prevent severe engine damage, as insufficient lubrication can lead to catastrophic failures. Similarly, if the ticking is related to an ignition system issue, while it may not be as critical, it still warrants prompt attention to avoid further complications that could affect performance and reliability. Additionally, an exhaust leak, although not an immediate threat, can impact your vehicle's efficiency and emissions, making timely repairs advisable. Therefore, it is essential to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can accurately diagnose the source of the ticking noise and recommend the appropriate repairs, ensuring your BMW remains safe and functional on the road.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 BMW 328i?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 BMW 328i, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be contributing to the issue. One of the first things to check is the oil level and pressure, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing components to make noise. If the oil level is adequate, the next area to investigate is the ignition system, as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can also produce ticking sounds. Additionally, an exhaust leak can create a ticking noise, often noticeable during acceleration or when the engine is under load. Lastly, if the noise seems to be coming from the lifters, it may indicate a problem with the hydraulic valve filter, which should be addressed promptly to avoid further engine damage. Regular maintenance and timely inspections can help identify these issues early, allowing for effective DIY repairs and ensuring the longevity of your BMW 328i.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2016 BMW 328i Engine Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs