BMW M6 Gran Coupe Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your BMW M6 Gran Coupe 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 BMW M6 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 BMW M6 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.

Troubleshooting Engine Ticking Noise in a BMW M6 Gran Coupe

When faced with a ticking noise in your BMW M6 Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to pinpoint the issue effectively. Start by checking the oil level and condition, as low or dirty oil can lead to lifter noise. If the oil is due for a change, consider using the recommended Castrol oil to ensure optimal performance. Next, inspect the hydraulic valve filter, as a faulty filter can contribute to ticking sounds. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, listen closely for noises coming from the front of the engine, which may indicate a problem with the vacuum pump. Should the noise persist, investigate the valvetronic motor for any electrical faults, as these can also produce clicking sounds. Lastly, assess the tensioner, being cautious of high RPMs if you suspect it may be failing. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the ticking noise and determine whether a simple fix or professional assistance is required.

What Could Cause a Ticking Noise in a BMW M6 Gran Coupe?

When your BMW M6 Gran Coupe starts emitting a ticking noise, it can be both concerning and perplexing. Common problems that may lead to this sound include loose items within the cabin, which can create distracting noises that mimic mechanical issues. Additionally, check for any debris lodged in the tires or undercarriage, as this can also produce a ticking sound while driving. Under the hood, failing lifters or low oil pressure are frequent culprits, as they can lead to inadequate lubrication of engine components, resulting in a ticking noise. It's essential to monitor your oil levels regularly, as low oil can exacerbate these issues. Furthermore, problems with the ignition system or exhaust leaks can contribute to unusual sounds. If you suspect that the cylinder heads are the source of the noise, replacing them with newer models can be an effective solution. However, for the best results, consider using genuine replacement parts and consulting a service center experienced with BMW vehicles. By understanding these common problems, you can take the necessary steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the ticking noise in your BMW M6 Gran Coupe.

Why is it Urgent to Address a Ticking Noise in a BMW M6 Gran Coupe?

Addressing a ticking noise in your BMW M6 Gran Coupe is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the health and safety of your vehicle. Ignoring this sound can lead to serious mechanical problems, as it often signals underlying issues that could escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. The ticking noise may stem from various sources, such as engine components or other vital systems, and failing to investigate can compromise your vehicle's performance and longevity. Moreover, the safety of both the driver and passengers is at stake; unusual noises can indicate significant mechanical failures that could result in dangerous driving conditions. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly to diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring that your BMW M6 Gran Coupe continues to perform optimally and safely on the road.

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