[Matthi1]

Hi guys,

First post here, I bought a 420d (my first bmw) and an overall very happy with it. However I know the engine in these cars is a little noisy anyway but I've got a metallic rattling noise from the right hand side of the engine bay when looking from the front. It's noticeable when at low revs and low speed from inside the cabin. Or you can here it with the bonnet open at idle. Is this normal, has anyone had any issues like this before? It's a 2014 model so has the older engine. Any help would be great, as to whether I should take it back to the dealer or not.

This is a video clip you can faintly here the rattling noise from it

Matt

[Assassin]

The 20d four pots are well known for timing chain failure which, if it goes, causes serious engine damage. Hard to tell from the video but strongly suggest you get it checked.

[adamastor]

I have exactly the same question and while the engine sounds a bit different, the rattling seems very similar.
My model is 320d F30 from 2012, with N47 163 bhp.

[wicked510]

That doesn't sound like timing chain. Get it checked out at your Indy mechanic.

Sounds almost electrical. Is the engine cover secured into the two rubber tabs in the back? Heat shield on properly?

[RJR82]

In my opinion a timing chain would move too slow on tickover to make that fast ticking sound, to me it sounds like metal vibrating against something or the vacuum pump! 🤔

[smaB]

Originally Posted by Matthi1

Hi guys,

First post here, I bought a 420d (my first bmw) and an overall very happy with it. However I know the engine in these cars is a little noisy anyway but I've got a metallic rattling noise from the right hand side of the engine bay when looking from the front. It's noticeable when at low revs and low speed from inside the cabin. Or you can here it with the bonnet open at idle. Is this normal, has anyone had any issues like this before? It's a 2014 model so has the older engine. Any help would be great, as to whether I should take it back to the dealer or not.

This is a video clip you can faintly here the rattling noise from it

Matt

I've had a similar issue - an unknown sound from my 2014 N47T, however, my sound appears to come from the right rear of the car from inside the cabin.

I recently had the EGR replacement and while at the local dealer, I had the engineer take a ride to listen out for it - he also was not sure. I have yet to return my car to get this checked out, but, I have had no issues with power, braking, turnover, etc.

I suggest having a certified dealership take a look as I've spent too long trying to find answers online - our cars could all have different issues and as machines, they WILL eventually make odd noises, some dangerous and others not so much. Best to be safe.

Safe journeys!