BMW Repair: rattle from engine, 1998 bmw 318i, stethascope

Question
Hi Michael,

I have just bought a 1998 BMW 318i. There is an intermittent rattle or tapping sound coming from the engine compartment. I am pretty sure there is no debris caught in the engine or the fan is not catching on its cowl. The garage I bought it from says that its a noise the valves make when the oil needs changing, but after changing the oil, the noise is still there. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer
Get a stethascope and poke around at the engine till you can pinpoint where the noise is comeing from.  It's hard to determine whats causeing a ticking when i cant be their to hear it's intensity and tone.  It may be that you have adjustment problems with your valves or a multitude of other things.
-cheers