2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe Engine and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
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 2020 BMW 440i 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 exhaust manifold or a loose connection in the exhaust system can cause 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 2020 BMW 440i 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 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 potential causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and result in ticking sounds. If the oil level is sufficient, listen carefully to determine the noise's location, which can help narrow down potential issues. Next, inspect the valve train components, as worn lifters or valves may be responsible for the noise. If the ticking persists, examine the timing chain and its tensioner, as a malfunction here can also contribute to the problem. Additionally, consider the fuel injectors; a faulty injector can produce similar ticking sounds. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks near the engine, as these can create unwanted noise. By following this structured approach, you can systematically diagnose and address the ticking noise, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits could be issues within the valve train, such as worn lifters or malfunctioning valves, which can lead to irregular engine performance. Additionally, low engine oil levels can exacerbate friction between moving parts, resulting in a noticeable ticking sound. Another area to investigate is the timing chain tensioner; if it is faulty, it may not maintain proper tension, causing the timing chain to rattle. An exhaust leak is also a possibility, as escaping gases can create a ticking noise, particularly noticeable when the engine is under load. Lastly, a malfunctioning fuel injector can contribute to this issue, as it may not deliver fuel efficiently, leading to irregular engine sounds. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can perform preliminary checks and potentially address minor issues before consulting a professional mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe is a matter of urgency that should not be overlooked. Early detection of such noises is crucial, as it can prevent further damage to vital engine components, which may lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Additionally, prompt attention to unusual sounds not only safeguards the vehicle's performance but also enhances safety, as unresolved engine issues can pose significant risks while driving. For owners still under warranty, timely intervention is essential, as delays in addressing engine problems could jeopardize warranty coverage. Therefore, it is highly advisable to investigate and resolve any ticking noises as soon as they are detected to ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.

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.

2020 BMW 440i Gran Coupe Ticking Noise: Causes & Repairs