2012 BMW 335i Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2012 BMW 335i 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 2012 BMW 335i 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 2012 BMW 335i 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 idler pulley fails, there will be a very audible chirping noise from the front of the engine. This is because the idler 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 slip off. If the belt falls off, the accessory that it drives will no longer function. For instance, if the alternator belt idler pulley fails, the alternator may stop functioning. Also if the pulley begins to wobble, allowing slack in the belt, it will make an extremely loud squeaking or screeching noise, especially on cold starts. This is the belt slipping on the crankshaft pulley, and will require belt replacement once the idler pulley is replaced.

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.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 335i?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 335i, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One prevalent issue is a defective hydraulic valve lifter, which may produce a ticking sound due to insufficient lubrication, particularly noticeable in colder weather when oil viscosity can affect performance. Additionally, some BMW engines, such as the N55, are known to emit a lifter-like ticking noise during cold starts, which typically subsides as the engine warms up. Another potential source of the ticking could be related to the relief valve; this noise often decreases when the engine revs, suggesting that the oil pump is adjusting pressure levels. Furthermore, camshaft-related issues may also contribute to the ticking sound, as the frequency of the noise can correlate with the camshaft's operation. Understanding these common causes can help you identify the source of the problem, but for a definitive diagnosis and repair, consulting a professional mechanic is recommended.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 335i?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 335i, understanding the urgency of the situation is paramount. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe consequences, including engine damage or safety risks while driving. The first step is to identify the source of the noise, as some causes may indicate minor issues, while others could signal significant problems that require immediate attention. For instance, if the ticking is accompanied by rough idling or a noticeable loss of power, it may suggest a critical engine malfunction that could worsen over time. Additionally, the financial implications of repairs can escalate if the issue is not addressed promptly, making it essential to weigh the potential costs against the risks of neglect. Therefore, seeking a professional inspection is highly recommended to accurately diagnose the problem and determine the necessary actions to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation of your vehicle.

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.