I have a 1996 e320 sedan, American model, gas, 115000 miles.

I start the engine , cold in the morning. It starts fine and runs smooth. After running for 20-30 seconds, it starts to tap. This lasts for about 3-5 minutes and fades away as the engine warms.
The sound is similar to a valve/lifter noise. It also resembles an noisy injector. The noise is at the top (middle to rear) of the motor. It has no effect on performance whatsoever.
Remember-it doesnt make any noise at start up, only after running for 20-30 seconds.

Any help is appreciated.

Make sure its not the purge valve. Mounted on the l/h inner fender near the abs pump assembly.


Joe

__________________
Project Smoker, '87 603 powered wagon
Hauler, 96 CTD can you say torque?
Toy 73 Cougar xr7 convertible
Acme Automotive Inc.
Raleigh NC
919-881-0364

I have a strong feeling tht it deals with your a/c. I have seen the same problem with a 2001 e430. The driver kept hearing a ticking noise that would come and go(we thought he was nuts!), well I heard it,and it turned out to be an a/c component doing the clicking.Hope this helps.

On mine it was the AC compressor going bad. Noise is gone when AC switched off.

__________________
RH

16 GLC300
12 C250
98 E300D
89 300SE
84 300SD sold