Clicking sounding coming from the right front wheel - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

benzino · #1 04-22-2009, 04:35 PM

I've got to admit, been a lurker for the longest time...I've found some really helpful info on the site and put it to use many times.

However, I can't figure out what's going on with my right front wheel. I've got a 200 C230. I get a clicking sound when driving. It never gets louder and it seems to get faster the faster I drive.

My instincts were the wheel bearings and races, which I had replaced and repacked. I even followed the instructions regarding setting the play with a dial indicator.

No dice, I've taken it apart twice and rechecked...everything seems ok. I'm at a loss, maybe take it to a shop?

Can you guys enlighten me, what am I not checking/doing?

CWW · #2 04-22-2009, 04:54 PM

Sure you don't have a nail or a rock in one of your tires?

tinypanzer · #3 04-22-2009, 10:54 PM

See above..... If not, look for an irregularity on the rotor.

Jack up the front and turn the wheel by hand. This may help you find it.

Cal Learner · #4 04-23-2009, 07:19 AM

Dented or poorly-seated brake dust shield?

benzino · #5 04-23-2009, 12:32 PM

I just checked, no nails or rocks stuck in the treads. I jacked up all the corners and spun each wheel. I don't hear any clicking....go figure

I do hear a very slight noise coming from the brakes....probably the pads contacting the rotors. I don't think that could be related. Brakes, overall are pretty good...no vibration when braking.

Now, if it were to be the bearings.....wouldn't they click when spun? I don't feel any looseness when I shake it at the 6 and 12 oclock position.

Thanks to all those who give input!

tinypanzer · #6 04-24-2009, 08:07 PM

"Now, if it were to be the bearings.....wouldn't they click when spun? I don't feel any looseness when I shake it at the 6 and 12 oclock position."

Maybe, but sometimes you'd have to have weight on them before a flat spot or other bearing irregularity would show up audibly. But didn't you say that you've replaced them already?

Check the reinforcement panel underneath the front end. See if it is loose. If it is, take off the 8 bolts holding it on and add a washer to each of them and tighten it back up. That's a known issue with these, the hole for the bolts can be too shallow to allow the bolts to tighten properly. Don't think that's your issue because that doesn't sound like what you are describing. But it's easy enough to check and it is a known issue with that car.

Can you describe the sound a little more? Clicking is typically something in the tire. Is it one click? Several clicks? Does it clearly follow the wheel RPM or does it just generally get faster or worse as you speed up? I guess what I am getting at is can you be certain that it is completely wheel speed related? Furthermore, are you sure it's coming from that wheel?

An old trick I used to use when diagnosing these types of noises is to drive through an alley with the windows down. Sounds bounce back off the walls and lets you hear what's going on much better.