2012 BMW 650i XDrive Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2012 BMW 650i xDrive Engine and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 650i xDrive 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 650i xDrive 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 common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 650i xDrive?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 650i xDrive, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is low oil pressure, which can result from insufficient engine oil, leading to inadequate lubrication of the valvetrain components. This lack of lubrication can cause ticking sounds as the parts struggle to move smoothly. Additionally, faulty valvetrain components, such as defective valve lifters or excessive valve clearance, can also produce similar noises. Exhaust leaks are another potential source of ticking sounds, as they can create audible disturbances that mimic engine issues. Spark plug problems may contribute to the noise as well, indicating that the ignition system requires attention. Furthermore, a defective hydraulic valve lifter can be particularly problematic, especially in colder weather when oil viscosity changes can affect performance. Lastly, environmental factors, such as cold weather startups, can temporarily exacerbate ticking noises, making it essential to consider the conditions under which the noise occurs. By understanding these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the ticking noise in their BMW, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2012 BMW 650i xDrive?

When you hear a ticking noise in the engine of your 2012 BMW 650i xDrive, it is crucial to act swiftly. This sound can be indicative of underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, may lead to severe engine damage. High-performance vehicles like the BMW 650i xDrive are particularly sensitive to mechanical problems, and a ticking noise could stem from various sources such as low oil pressure, faulty valvetrain components, or even exhaust leaks. While some ticking may be benign, others could signal serious concerns like rod knock or timing chain issues, which can compromise the engine's integrity. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation or consult a professional mechanic to pinpoint the exact cause of the noise. By taking immediate action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also prevent costly repairs down the line, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your BMW.

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Ticking Noise in 2012 BMW 650i xDrive Engine