2020 BMW M8 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2020 BMW M8 Engine and Recommended Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 M8 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 M8 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 M8, and how should I diagnose them?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of your 2020 BMW M8, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler issues before delving into more complex ones. Begin by checking the engine oil level, as insufficient oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, causing components to rub together and create noise. If the oil level is adequate, the next step is to inspect the valve lifters for signs of wear, as these can also be a source of ticking sounds. Following this, examine the fuel injectors, since malfunctioning injectors can produce similar ticking noises. If these components are functioning properly, turn your attention to the timing chain system, as wear on the tensioner or guides can result in ticking. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks that could mimic engine noise. If, after these checks, the source of the ticking remains elusive, it may be prudent to consult a qualified mechanic who can conduct a comprehensive diagnosis using specialized tools. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the potential causes of the ticking noise in your BMW M8's engine.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW M8?

When diagnosing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 BMW M8, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits may be valve train issues, where worn lifters or improperly adjusted valves can lead to noticeable ticking sounds. Additionally, low oil levels or poor-quality oil can increase friction among engine components, exacerbating the noise. Another potential source is a faulty timing chain tensioner, which may fail to maintain proper tension, resulting in a ticking sound. An exhaust leak, particularly near the engine, can also produce similar noises, as can malfunctioning fuel injectors that may indicate issues within the fuel delivery system. While these are some of the most common causes, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended to accurately diagnose the issue and ensure your BMW M8 runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in my 2020 BMW M8 engine?

Addressing the ticking noise in your 2020 BMW M8 engine is of utmost importance, as neglecting this symptom can lead to serious mechanical issues. Ticking sounds often indicate underlying problems that, if left unchecked, may escalate into more severe damage, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated; a seemingly minor noise could be a warning sign of significant wear or malfunction within the engine components. To safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity, it is advisable to have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine as soon as possible. By taking prompt action, you not only protect your investment but also ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle on the road. Remember, addressing unusual engine sounds early can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs down the line.

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