W203 (C240) driveline ticking noise ?

[Ethan]

On my 2002 C240 with 18K miles, after driving for about seven-miles or so I get a ticking noise - clicking increase and decreases with speed, strictly speed dependent -
when I open the center console lid the noise is louder.
If the radio is on the noise is just about impossible to hear over the music.

Is this the frequent insulation dropping, or center driveshaft bearing, or internal transmission issue?

[mbdoc]

Take a look at the drive shaft, they have a sticker that can "tick" against the tunnel.

[Ethan]

Thank You, Doc - I will give a second look - this time on a lift instead of ramps.

[Ethan]

Yes it was something hanging off or on the driveshaft.
The dealer fixed it for me.

I tend to hose down the underside of my car after salt is used on the roads and when detailing my car - so maybe that was part of the cause.