Engine "ticking" between 2500 and 3000 rpm
 

Hi,

I've noticed that my CSL makes a very slight ticking noise between 2500 and 3000rpm. I can hear it when driving and when in neutral just revving the engine.

My 335i does it too, but it's a bit more difficult to hear on that engine. I'm guessing this has to do with the engine bay insulation om my 335i though. Is this just a "thing" with the BMW straight sixes?

See here for some info Possibly the VANOS, can be noisy anyway, unless you've got a increase in Fuel consumption and /or reduction in power, it should be ok.

Loads of them do it - apparently it's fine, unless it's really obvious - get the vanos checked.

I think I'll have it looked at ASAP. I read somewhere that you could put a screwdriver against the exterior of the VANOS unit and then the rattle would be very easy to hear?

Just wanted to post an update on this issue.

I had the car checked out at the dealership today, and they told me that the sound is perfectly normal. For reference they had a regular E46 M3 Cabriolet parked and I listened to that engine making the exact same noise at around 3000rpm. Apparently it's some kind of resonance with the engine cover that's specifically loud at ~3000rpms.

My old E46 M3 did it, my mates E46 M3 does it, my CSL does it, an independent said it was something to do with the gases flowing through the head? Whether that's accurate or not I don't know but it certainly seems the norm that these S54 engine's make that noise!

Mine is making a similar noise between those revs, I'll get it checked out soon but reassuring to know it may be "normal" - never used to do it though :whistle:

Mine too has this noise and it has had a replacment vanos! i have noticed it more of late mileage is 48k.

They immediately ruled out vanos since the issue was only apparent at 3000rpms. Vanos is noticeable at all rpm's - even at idle and the sound is different. They told me vanos issues sound like a can of marbles being shaken.

Anyway, they tell me it's normal for this engine. Still, it _does_ sound like there's something wrong with the engine and I was 90% sure they'd tell me they wanted to change the vanos.

Make no mistake. I'm definitely a fan of the S54 over the newer M3's S65B40, but that V8 is definitely smoother and less grumpy through the revs.

Mine doesnt !! :hahaha::hahaha::hahaha: ... but it soon fookin will !!!!:smokin: