Hoping someone can help/advise with some engine noises that have developed on my 4.4TDV8. The best way to describe them is an audible ticking/chugging/clattering type noise, particularly noticeable at low revs. It almost sounds like a steam train.

I thought it could be wastegate clatter but I can rev the car freely up to the redline in neutral without replicating the noise. So don’t think it’s that.

There’s no fault codes and the drive is fine, plenty of power and it’s barely audible with the windows closed. It’s only because I’ve been driving a lot recently with open windows that I’ve noticed it.

It only seems to happen in gear. The frequency/timing doesn’t seems to change with speed (so don’t think it’s driveline) and it’s most noticeable when getting on the throttle from a standing start/low speed. It also happens on overrun when off the throttle.

I’d put it down to ‘one of those noises it just makes’ if it wasn’t so loud and obvious. I’m almost certain it’s a fairly recent thing as I would’ve noticed it before now.

I had the fear it was a turbo on the way out but all the online info on turbos suggest a whistling/screeching sound and smoke if on the way out. I don’t have that. Just the satisfying whoosh when on the power.

Any ideas? Andy

2010 4.4TDV8 Vogue SE in Santorini Black with Ivory interior
2017 Audi SQ5 3.0 V6T Quattro in Volcano Red
2001 Audi Allroad 2.5 TDI manual with low-range in Highland Green. Currently SORN whilst undergoing some serious restoration!

Gearbox heat shield makes some wierd noises as it resonates at low rpm. 2012 TDV8 Vogue (L322)

I’ll have a look next time I’m underneath and see if it’s that. Thanks for the tip off and 🤞 you’re right! 👍 Andy

2010 4.4TDV8 Vogue SE in Santorini Black with Ivory interior
2017 Audi SQ5 3.0 V6T Quattro in Volcano Red
2001 Audi Allroad 2.5 TDI manual with low-range in Highland Green. Currently SORN whilst undergoing some serious restoration!