2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Engine Makes A Ticking Noise

Common Causes of Ticking Noises in Your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Engine and How to Address 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 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 potential causes of a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with a ticking noise in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the engine oil level and condition, as low oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, resulting in ticking sounds. If the oil is sufficient, proceed to inspect the valve train components, including lifters and camshaft lobes, for any signs of wear or damage. Next, examine the exhaust system for leaks, particularly near the engine, as these can also produce similar noises. To further pinpoint the source of the ticking, use a mechanic's stethoscope while the engine is running, allowing you to listen closely to different areas of the engine. If these steps do not reveal the issue, consider the timing chain tensioner and fuel injectors, as faults in these components can also contribute to ticking sounds. Should you find the diagnosis challenging, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure accurate identification and resolution of the problem. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the ticking noise and maintain the performance of your vehicle.

What could be causing the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?

When diagnosing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at fault. One of the primary culprits is valve train issues, which may arise from worn lifters or camshaft lobes, leading to irregular engine sounds. Additionally, low engine oil levels can significantly contribute to this noise, as insufficient lubrication causes engine components to rub against each other, creating a ticking sound. An exhaust leak, particularly near the engine, can also manifest as a ticking noise, making it essential to inspect the exhaust system for any signs of damage. Furthermore, malfunctioning fuel injectors can produce a similar ticking sound during operation, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Lastly, a faulty timing chain tensioner may struggle to maintain proper tension, resulting in a noticeable ticking noise. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent further damage to your engine, and while some DIY enthusiasts may feel confident tackling these problems, consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis is always a wise choice to ensure the issue is accurately resolved.

How urgent is it to address the ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?

Addressing a ticking noise in the engine of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's overall health and safety. Early detection of this noise can significantly reduce the risk of further damage to engine components, which can escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. Ignoring this symptom may compromise the engine's performance, leading to decreased efficiency and potential breakdowns. Moreover, unusual noises can indicate underlying issues that may pose safety risks to both the driver and passengers. Therefore, it is essential for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize investigating and resolving any ticking sounds promptly, ensuring the vehicle operates smoothly and safely while avoiding more severe complications down the road.

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