S-Class Engine Ticking Noise

[Big T]

Peeps, I have an S280 W140 shape that for some reason the engine makes a ticking noise like it has no oil in it but only when the car get's hot like when stuck in traffic or moving very slowly for a long period of time. It doesn't do it from cold or if I drive constantly without getting stuck in traffic.

The oil pressue is fine when it does it and I have checked the oil, there's plenty in there.

Does anyone have an idea what could be causing it? Garage job?

Any help would be great.

Thx..T

[Parrot of Doom]

Have you tried any fuel cleaners?

I'd have it looked at tbh, could be any number of things, pump on its way out, tappets, valves, a leak of some kind, etc.

[A11LVJ]

could be noisy injectors,have you tried listening to them with a long scewdriver.

[Big T]

Thanks for the advice chaps, I haven't tried any of those things but I think I will just book it in when I get time.

I used to know a very good Benz mechanic that looked after all the Mercs I owned but he's retired now

Can anyone recommend a good Benz mechanic in or near E / N.E London??

[steve-p]

Sometimes a leak in the gasket on one of the exhaust manifold ports can sound like tappet noise, and it may only appear as the engine gets hot due to thermal expansion. However, it could be a lot of things, as already mentioned. Another possibility with hydraulic tappets is that the engine oil is too thin at high temperatures. I've had this before now, and switching to a slightly more viscous oil cured it.

[Big T]

Thx Steve, I'll try the oil as this is an easy one to do before booking it in to a garage.

Any advice on what type? 10-40 or 15-40??