2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe and Recommended Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 435i Gran Coupe 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 435i Gran Coupe 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 2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe?

When you hear a ticking noise coming from the engine of your 2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to prevent potential damage. One of the most common culprits is low oil levels, which can lead to inadequate lubrication of the valvetrain components, resulting in a distinct ticking sound. Regularly checking and maintaining proper oil levels can help mitigate this issue. Additionally, ignition problems can contribute to engine ticking; faulty spark plugs or ignition coils may need inspection or replacement. Exhaust leaks are another frequent source of ticking noises, as escaping gases can create a ticking sound that mimics engine issues. Beyond these, more serious concerns such as faulty valvetrain components, rod knock, or timing chain problems could also be at play. If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, start by checking your oil levels and inspecting the ignition system, as these are the most accessible areas to address. However, if the ticking persists, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic to avoid further complications.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe, it’s crucial to act swiftly. This sound can often signal underlying issues that, if ignored, may escalate into more severe problems, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. While some ticking noises might be benign, others could indicate serious mechanical failures, such as valve train issues or low oil pressure, which can compromise engine performance and longevity. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s essential to understand that diagnosing the source of the noise early can save you from extensive damage and repair bills down the line. If you’re not equipped to identify the problem, seeking the expertise of a qualified mechanic is advisable. They can provide a thorough inspection and help you determine whether it’s a simple fix or a more complex issue requiring immediate attention. Remember, addressing engine noises promptly not only ensures your vehicle runs smoothly but also safeguards your investment in the long run.

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2016 BMW 435i Gran Coupe Engine Ticking Noise Solutions