Ticking/clatter from Clio 172

[John D.]

My 172 Cup appears to have developed a slight issue. When coasting in gear or on a slight steady throttle a ticking/clattering noise can be heard. It varies with speed (as speed drops the frequency of the ticking slows). I don't think it is happening when accelerating on the throttle, but it may be drowned out by the engine and exhaust noise then. Likewise I cannot tell if it is happening when letting off the throttle at higher speeds. It is most apparent when slowing for junctions etc. The noise is not very loud nor are there any signs of anything untoward in the way the car drives.

I first noticed it the day after returning from a 1600 mile lap of the Scottish Highlands where the car certainly got a hearty workout so I suspect there may be a connection there (that said its been driven in the same manner on many other occasions without issue). It was serviced very recently (within the last 3k miles/ 1 month).

My first thoughts are that it must be drivetrain related as it stops if the car is taken out of gear. Gearbox? Driveshaft? I'm a mechanical numpty so don't really have a clue! I'll be talking to my specialist tomorrow.

Any ideas?

[DR B]

Is it a mechanical sound?

First place I would look is the tyres. Check to see whether there is a stone in any of the treads. Second place would be alternator, as its possible the blades(?) may be catching something. Have had both of these on my clio. If its neither of these, then I don't know. Sorry!

[John D.]

Definately not a stone in the treads; I know what that sounds like. It is a mechanical sound of some sort.

[davebem]

Possibly gearbox related, does it do it in any gear??

[John D.]

davebem said:

Possibly gearbox related, does it do it in any gear??

Yes. But on closer examination it also does it out of gear (I originally thought it did'nt for some reason!)

I don't know if I'm just being hopefull but it does'nt seem 'substantial' enough to be the gearbox if you know what I mean? Got a feeling its coming from somewhere around the left front wheel as I've heard some funny noises from there when I've hit a bump (but I'm not totally sure that isn't in my head!).

Anyway its booked into a garage on Tuesday.

[John D.]

Turns out a bearing is knackered in the gearbox due to the oil leaking. New gearbox required. Arse.