2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 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 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 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 G550 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 of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550, the first step is to check the engine oil level, as low oil can often be the simplest explanation for such sounds. If the oil level is adequate, proceed to inspect the valve train components, including the valves, lifters, and camshaft, as issues here can lead to ticking noises. Listening carefully to the engine can help you pinpoint the noise's location, which is crucial for narrowing down potential causes. Next, examine the timing chain tensioner, as a malfunctioning tensioner can also produce a ticking sound. Don’t overlook the exhaust system; any leaks or damage can mimic engine ticking. Additionally, testing the fuel injectors for proper operation is essential, as faulty injectors can contribute to the noise. If these steps do not resolve the issue or if you feel uncertain at any point, seeking a professional mechanic's expertise is advisable for a thorough diagnosis. By following this systematic approach, you can effectively identify and address the source of the ticking noise in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550?

When dealing with a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One primary culprit could be valve train issues, where worn lifters or valves create a distinct ticking sound. Additionally, low or dirty engine oil can exacerbate this noise, as insufficient lubrication leads to metal components grinding against each other. Another potential source is a faulty timing chain tensioner, which may fail to maintain proper tension, resulting in a ticking sound as the timing chain moves. An exhaust leak is also a possibility; when hot gases escape through small openings in the exhaust system, they can produce a ticking noise. Lastly, spark knock, or pre-ignition, can occur due to improper combustion timing, contributing to the ticking sound. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage to your engine, making it vital for DIY enthusiasts to investigate these common causes thoroughly.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to severe engine damage, which may result in costly repairs and compromise the vehicle's performance. The ticking noise could stem from various issues, including low oil levels or worn-out components, which, if left unchecked, can escalate into more significant problems. Early detection is key, as it allows for timely intervention that can prevent further complications. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this issue is essential; taking action promptly not only safeguards the engine's integrity but also ensures the safety of the driver and passengers. Therefore, if you notice a ticking noise, it is imperative to investigate the cause and address it without delay to maintain the optimal functioning of your vehicle.

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