CLK 320 odd noise

[Russell B]

I have a 2000 CLK 320 with auto box which makes an odd noise at motorway cruising speed. It sounds like a comb is being scraped over a hard surface. It seems to be coming from the gearbox or cabin. Any ideas?

 

[tom7035]

Pretty vague and not much to go on here Russell B.

 

[Russell B]

Sorry, what further information would you find helpful?

 

[Myros]

do you mean

the noise a comb makes when you drag its teeth over the edge of your desk, or some other comb-like noise. Is it deafening or barely audible. Speed related, or constant. Top gear only, or all the gears at that particular rev band.
It might be something in the airflow.

 

[Russell B]

Comb over edge of desk, not too loud, constant level. Speed related (70 mph +)
Probably top gear only in that case.

 

[Myros]

hmmmmm

the comb teeth noise sound as though something, somewhere is rubbing, grating or flapping. Or it could even be something in the exhaust or induction sytem, or even the fresh air system. It's got me completely flummoxed, other than offering the basic advice of easy stuff first. Take out all your kit, all your pens, sweets, and any other non-fitted at the factory stuff, and see if the noise disappears. It might be something just rattling in a door pocket or the glovebox. Apologies if you've already thought of that.

 

[OlafMaxwell]

Have a look at the underbody shield panel. I had a similar problem with a ford Mondeo, dealer was almost sending for men in white coats for me. anyway,the shield under the engine compartment was never refitted properly atthe front after first oil change and at speed 60plus it was being blown down onto the road surface making a sound very like you describe. There is another one under the auto transmission which if not refitted properly may possibly make contact with drive shaft. Maybe worth getting as friend to drive ahead of you to check, thats how I found the cause of my problem.

 

[Russell B]

Thanks

Thanks to Myros and OlafMaxwell. Will give your ideas a try.

 

[jimsinessex]

I have a 1999 CLK 230K Coupe and have experienced two irritating "vibration" type noises.
The first was there from new and appeared when accelerating at low revs, I was convinced it was coming from the cabin or boot, stripped everything portable out, had a mate crawling around inside and still couldn't place it. The MB dealer eventually found it was coming from the sun roof, new parts required, sorted under warranty and never reappeared.
The second is still with me and comes from the interior rear view mirrow, confirmed by gripping the mirror and noise stops.

Does anyone know how to :-
a) remove the mirror, am reluctant to just yank it off the stem in case I break it.
b) open up the mirror, again I am reluctant to prise the housing off from around the glass in case I break it. I would attack it with more confidence if I knew this was indeed the way to get to the internals

 

[pascal]

I'm not that sure with the clk Jimmi. Is there little slots that allow air in for the temp sensor on it or behind it. This sensor is often the cause of vibration/buzzing. I think some MBs have little fans for this sensor.


Pascal

 

[jimsinessex]

No slots on the CLK I am afraid, I believe the CLK is based on the C Class which doesn't have the fan sensor system for cabin temp. The vibration stops when I clench the mirror body firmly, just need to get inside it without breaking anything.
Thanks for the interest though Pascal
Jim