3on8

Hi Everyone,

My E350 has about 5k miles and I've recently noticed the engine has gotten louder at idle, regardless of engine temp.

Dealer says it is normal. Has anyone else experienced this?

Thanks in advance.

lkchris

Might be normal.

Needs more miles in any event.

Many engines are quieter with brand new oil than with older oil, but you should still go 13K miles. The sound at 13K miles--if this is source of the sound--will be by definition, normal.

emilner

As the motor wears in, by definition, tolerances are increased. This will usually help improve mileage/power and will often result in a little more sound. I have also noticed that often the exhaust seems to get a little louder.

As an aside, have you made sure the oil level is right? Low oil will certainly cause noise...

3on8

Thanks for both of your replies.

emilner - oil level is correct.

konigstiger

The engine break-in process depends strongly on the usage conditions and driving style of the owner, and in some cases, the break-in process can extend to greater than 6500 miles. Use the 6500 miles as a benchmark and then have service revisit if the noise continues. Also, during this period observe if increased engine oil consumption is noticed.

In addition, if your VIN is within A708977 – A876088 have the dealer check VMI to see if your vehicle is included in Service Campaign 2006110002 whereas the engine control module software will be updated.

3on8

Thank you, Konigstiger.

As a fellow owner/enthusiast, I am always grateful for your informative posts.

Forumid

There's a "known" problem with the oil pumps in the 350 and 550 engines. I have a 550 with the problem: noise arises shortly after start-up gets worse over the next 3-4 minutes, gradually resolving as the engine warms. Sounds almost like a dieseling or "marbles in a coffee can" noise. If you think this might fit, let me know and I'll give you more info.

3on8

Thank you, Forumid.

The noise you've described is what I am also hearing, with the only caveat being that, for me, the noise does not subside as the engine warms (i.e., same intensity whether motor is cold or after a 3-hr drive).

I'd really appreciate any info you could provide.