BMW M240i XDrive Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your BMW M240i xDrive Engine and How to Address Them

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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 BMW M240i 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 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 BMW M240i 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.

Troubleshooting Engine Ticking Noise in a BMW M240i xDrive

When troubleshooting engine ticking noise in your BMW M240i xDrive, begin by checking the oil quality and level, as inadequate or old oil can lead to lifter noise. Ensure you are using a high-quality 0W40 oil that meets BMW LL-01 specifications, as this can significantly reduce ticking sounds. If the noise is consistent, try to replicate it under various conditions; this will be crucial if you need to consult a dealer. Pay attention to the timing of the noise; if it occurs only at startup and fades quickly, it may not indicate a serious problem, possibly linked to the oil pump. However, if the ticking persists, investigate potential issues with the valvetronic motor or fuel delivery system, as these can also contribute to abnormal sounds. Lastly, consider inspecting the DISA valve; removing it temporarily can help determine if it’s the source of the noise. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the ticking noise, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and reliably.

How to Diagnose and Fix Engine Ticking Noise in a BMW M240i xDrive?

When addressing engine ticking noise in a BMW M240i xDrive, understanding common problems is crucial for effective diagnosis and repair. One prevalent issue is a faulty hydraulic valve filter, which can lead to irregular oil flow and result in ticking sounds. Additionally, the vacuum pump may also contribute to this noise if it is malfunctioning. Other potential culprits include worn-out components such as the water pump or tensioner, which may require replacement to resolve the issue. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and thorough inspections of engine parts, can significantly reduce the likelihood of these problems arising. By being aware of these common failure modes, you can better communicate with your mechanic and ensure that your vehicle receives the appropriate care to maintain optimal performance and a quiet engine.

Why is it Urgent to Address a Ticking Noise in a BMW M240i xDrive Engine?

Addressing a ticking noise in your BMW M240i xDrive engine is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. This noise often indicates a malfunctioning hydraulic valve lifter, which, if left unchecked, can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. Ignoring this symptom can compromise your vehicle's performance, resulting in decreased efficiency and potential safety hazards while driving. Moreover, inadequate lubrication of the lifters can exacerbate the problem over time, leading to more extensive damage that could affect other engine components. By promptly resolving the ticking noise, you not only safeguard the longevity of your engine but also ensure a smoother and safer driving experience. Therefore, it is essential to take this issue seriously and seek a solution as soon as possible to maintain the optimal functionality of your BMW M240i xDrive.

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