knewyork

Hi everyone,

I hope you are all well. My mother’s 2004 530i with 125,000 miles started making a loud ticking noise. I wanted to get feedback on what it might be. I’ve done some research and think it is valve related. If you can share light on how to fix it and costs around the fix, we’d greatly appreciate it.

Please refer to video attached.

THANKS!

seanjordan20

Does it go away after the car warms up? What oil are you putting in the car and how often are you changing it?

scottalexander

Can you look at the engine and see all the oil has leaked out of it?

seanjordan20

I would assume the oil light would be on if there was no oil in the car

donpb

Does anyone think that sounds like noisy valves?

seanjordan20

It sounds like he needs to change his oil weight to me. 0w40 will fix that right up.

ripley

My guess stuck lifter or the vacuum pump - sounds like my 530d vacuum pump when the oil cap is off.

Maybe try oil change with a flush first - although some people warn against the flush.

ripley

Also try removing the engine acoustic cover and use a long screwdriver pressed at various points along the valve cover or wherever, handle touching your ear.
The noise may be louder near the source. This is easier with an engine stethoscope but if you don't have one...

knewyork

I will revert with what happens when we warm up the car (I am doing this now). I will also be checking the oil.

My mother has been putting Castrol 10w30 synthetic oil. Is this correct for a 2004 BMW 530i with 125,000 miles?

THANK YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!!! Let me get back with more information.

seanjordan20

Oh no. That is your issue of why it is ticking. You are putting the wrong oil in the car. You need to put 0w40 in the car. Do 2 oil changes. You're over working the engine and it not being lubed correctly. You may have permanent damage with seals already