2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Diagnosing the Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 and How to Resolve Them

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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 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 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 potential causes and diagnostic steps for a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the engine oil level, as low oil can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in ticking sounds. If the oil level is adequate, inspect the valve lifters for any signs of wear or damage, as these components can also produce a ticking noise when they are not functioning correctly. Next, test the fuel injectors to ensure they are operating properly, as faulty injectors can contribute to engine noise. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, examine the timing chain for any signs of wear or damage, as problems here can lead to significant engine noise. Finally, check for any exhaust leaks, which can sometimes manifest as a ticking sound. By following this structured approach, you can systematically eliminate potential causes and pinpoint the issue, allowing for a more efficient and effective repair process.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is valve train issues, which may arise from worn lifters or camshaft lobes, leading to an audible ticking sound. Additionally, low engine oil levels can significantly contribute to this noise, as insufficient lubrication causes engine components to rub against each other, creating friction and sound. Another potential source is a faulty timing chain tensioner, which may fail to maintain proper tension on the timing chain, resulting in a ticking noise. Exhaust leaks, particularly those near the engine, can also produce similar sounds, as escaping gases create a distinct ticking effect. Furthermore, spark knock, often caused by using fuel with an incorrect octane rating or carbon buildup, can manifest as a ticking noise during operation. Lastly, loose or damaged heat shields around the exhaust system may vibrate and create ticking sounds when the engine is running. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and addressed through DIY methods, others may require professional inspection to ensure accurate identification and resolution.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's health and safety. Ticking noises can indicate serious underlying problems, such as issues with the valve train, low oil levels, or even more severe engine damage. If these symptoms are ignored, they can escalate into costly repairs and potentially leave you stranded due to a breakdown. Moreover, neglecting engine noises can pose safety risks while driving, as they may signal a failure that could compromise vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize that while some minor issues may be manageable at home, any persistent ticking should prompt immediate inspection by a qualified mechanic. This proactive approach not only safeguards your investment but also ensures your vehicle remains reliable and safe on the road.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 Engine Ticking Noise Explained