1995 US e36 M3 tapping / clicking at cold start, 1-2 seconds, then quiet (video)

[35nhma]

https://youtu.be/BAsrjyhjYTM


Hi All,

Thanks in advance for your time. I am trying to identify the cause of this sound during a cold start. The video above was taken with the camera placed underneath the car.

I have fresh oil, 7qts 5w30 mineral, OEM German filter from a reputable mechanic. It is November in Austin TX, lows of 50-70 overnight. I have only owned the car a few weeks, but it is super clean and the last owner had it for 10 years and was reportedly quite meticulous.

A couple people on the forum (thank you) have suggested it sounds like lifter tap. I have heard other recordings of this, which seem quieter and last much longer. I am no expert, though, so I don't know the range of noises these can make. I have read that lifter tap is really NBD, but again, I am no expert, and there is a lot of misinformation circulating on the web.

The mechanics who did the pre-purchase inspection for the dealer who eventually sold it to me either did not hear the noise or were not concerned that this was an issue (World Class Auto, Durham NC). The mechanics who did the post-purchase inspection (Flamingo Automotive, Austin TX) were not terribly concerned either, but raised the question of what this might be.

I'm just trying to do my due diligence. I will update when I learn more.
- Hank

[bmwstephen]

that is odd. my 95 sits for weeks at a time since it is not my DD (especially now). every time I start it, I never have that rattle.

[shadowpuck]

https://www.enginebuildermag.com/200...ppet-problems/

[bmwdirtracer]

I'd recommend putting a mechanic's stethoscope (1) on the center of the valvecover, and (2) on the timing chain tensioner and front of the valvecover. In each case, have someone else start the engine, cold.

Something about the sound in your video says "chain slap" to me. If so, since it goes away quickly, a tensioner will likely fix it.

EDIT: Played your video for a fellow lifetime master BMW tech. He said lifters.

[35nhma]

https://www.enginebuildermag.com/200...ppet-problems/

Great resource, thank you!

BMWDirtracer, thanks for the quick reply. I'm hoping it is lifters. I will inspect with a scope, talk to the mechs, and report back.

Stephen, every noise your e36 doesn't make ... I gather you should count those blessings

[shadowpuck]

it's kinda tough to tell without being right there - so, i could believe lifters or chain slap.

on the plus side - hank - there's almost nothing on an e36 that is a secret anymore. i've had mine seemingly forever now and have used it as my track car for the past 15+ years....it doesn't bear much resemblance to the day it left the factory, but every time i start it up and drive it makes me happy! i've had my e36 in your part of the world at cota several times - what a blast!

keep us updated on what you find out.

[35nhma]

thanks shadowpuck. i'm enjoying becoming part of the community. i've had my eye on one of these for a decade ... back when they were nice and cheap ... ! i've only ever left a note on one windshield of one car re: if you ever want to sell, and it was an alpine white e36 with gray interior. 10 years later ... made it happen. risk of lifter tap and sh** door cards and all.