[Video included] CLA 200 W117 Rattle/Grinding issue when engine is up to temp

Skalas

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Hello everyone,


I drive a 2013 Mercedes CLA 1.6L Petrol (W117/C117). M270 Engine


About six months ago, my alternator failed and was refurbished by a mechanic. Since then, it’s been working fine without any issues. While the car was in for repairs, I also had them inspect the timing chain due to a noticeable rattle during cold starts. They ended up replacing the timing chain.


Recently, however, I’ve started noticing a strange noise under specific conditions. What’s odd is that the car actually performs better when cold compared to when it’s at operating temperature.


The noise itself is quite distinct — a rattling or grinding sound — and appears when the engine reaches approximately 60°C and up. It lasts for about 5–10 minutes and then disappears completely. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:


  • The noise is present whether the car is in neutral or drive, which rules out the gearbox and driveshaft.
  • Heat shields have been checked and are securely fastened.
  • Engine mounts are in good condition.
  • Oil levels are within spec.
  • Oil type: This might be a potential issue. The mechanic made a few mistakes during the job, so the wrong oil may have been used. I’m planning to do an oil change soon and will switch to the correct spec (MB 229.5).
  • Additives used: I added Liqui Moly Hydraulic Lifter Additive (can’t say if it helped) and Liqui Moly Injection Cleaner just in case.

Given all this, I suspect the issue could be related to oil pressure or viscosity — especially since the problem begins at a certain engine temperature and then goes away.


I’ve attached a video of the noise for reference. If anyone has experienced something similar and managed to resolve it, I’d really appreciate your input.



Thanks in advance!
 

SL63 Mark

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Sounds a bit drive belt/ancillary to me
 
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Skalas

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Sounds a bit drive belt/ancillary to me
Thank you for the reply, i have changed the drive belt 2 weeks ago as well. But the sound was there with the old belt as well. Do you suspect maybe a pulley?
 

Blobcat

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Thank you for the reply, i have changed the drive belt 2 weeks ago as well. But the sound was there with the old belt as well. Do you suspect maybe a pulley?
Always worth changing the idler and tensioner at the same time - also turning each item by hand to feel for any tight spots and/or grinding / bearing failures
 
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Skalas

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Always worth changing the idler and tensioner at the same time - also turning each item by hand to feel for any tight spots and/or grinding / bearing failures
Thank you. Will check it out over the weekend.
 

alexanderfoti

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Your going to need to scope around the engine, whilst somebody revvs it to get the noise to appear.

I suspect the cam actuator is faulty and not locking
 
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Skalas

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Your going to need to scope around the engine, whilst somebody revvs it to get the noise to appear.

I suspect the cam actuator is faulty and not locking
I did just that last night and the noise certainly seems to originate from the cam actuator/Adjuster side. Thank you. This actually makes sense.
 
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alexanderfoti

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Good job.

I would not run it until fixed, as that bad actuator will damage a chain quickly.
 

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