2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG Engine and How to Address Them

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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 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG 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 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG 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 idler pulley fails, there will be a very audible chirping noise from the front of the engine. This is because the idler 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 slip off. If the belt falls off, the accessory that it drives will no longer function. For instance, if the alternator belt idler pulley fails, the alternator may stop functioning. Also if the pulley begins to wobble, allowing slack in the belt, it will make an extremely loud squeaking or screeching noise, especially on cold starts. This is the belt slipping on the crankshaft pulley, and will require belt replacement once the idler pulley is replaced.

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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG?

When confronted with a ticking noise in the engine of your 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the oil level; low or dirty oil can lead to increased engine noise, so ensure it is at the proper level and in good condition. Next, inspect the drive belts for any signs of wear or damage, as these can also produce ticking sounds when they are not functioning correctly. Following this, examine the timing chain, as a worn or faulty chain can contribute to the noise. Additionally, assess the valve train components, including lifters and valves, since issues here can manifest as ticking sounds. Finally, don't overlook the exhaust system; any leaks can create similar noises, so a thorough inspection is warranted. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively identify and potentially resolve the ticking noise in your engine.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is valve train problems, which may arise from worn lifters or malfunctioning valves, leading to an audible ticking sound. Additionally, low or dirty engine oil can significantly impact lubrication, causing components to create noise as they operate under insufficient oil levels. Another potential source of the ticking could be a faulty timing chain tensioner, which is responsible for maintaining the proper tension in the timing chain; if it fails, it can produce a distinct ticking sound. Furthermore, an exhaust leak near the engine can mimic internal engine noises, so it's essential to inspect for any leaks that could be contributing to the issue. Lastly, a malfunctioning fuel injector may also generate a ticking noise as it operates. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent further damage and maintain the performance of your vehicle, making it advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic if the noise persists.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG?

Addressing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 AMG is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring this symptom can lead to significant engine damage, resulting in costly repairs and potential breakdowns. Early detection is key; by identifying the issue promptly, you can prevent further complications that may arise from neglect. Additionally, unusual engine noises can indicate underlying problems that, if left unaddressed, could compromise your safety while driving. If your vehicle is still under warranty, timely action is even more critical, as delays might affect your coverage for necessary repairs. Therefore, it is highly advisable to consult a qualified mechanic as soon as you notice a ticking noise, ensuring that your vehicle remains reliable and safe on the road.

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