Center Driveshaft or Leaking Exhaust Clicking Noise

Subscribe
Oct 22, 2025 | 01:58 PM
  #1  
Hi guys, I'm new here. My 2007 G has a clicking noise.

The metal tapping/clicking noise can be heard from underneath when accelerating above 20 mph with the window down, and it is especially noticeable next to cars or barriers. The noise can be more evident during hard accelerations. It might be reproduced on the lift. Whether or not turning the steering wheel doesn't makes a difference. It cannot be reproduced by only revving up without putting it into gear.
I've fixed the heat-shield rattle, so it should be a different noise since the issue isn't reproducible just by revving up.
From what I read, it may be related to the center driveshaft that connects the transmission and transfer case. I checked the CV boot of the shaft and saw a small crack around it, but there was no noticeable play when trying to wiggle the shaft laterally by hand.

I've been to 2 local Genman auto shops. They all said it's an exhaust leak and asked me to take it to an exhaust shop, but how does that explain it only clicking when driving, not when parking and revving up?

By the way, does anyone have a repair/service manual for the W463 G500? Or a good source of it? I'm looking into diagnosing and researching exhaust-leaking fixing solutions, and DIY. On YouTube, the resource is way too limited.
Reply 0
Oct 22, 2025 | 08:01 PM
  #2  
That cracked CV boot on your center driveshaft is a major clue. Even without noticeable play, a worn CV joint inside can make that exact ticking noise under acceleration. The exhaust shops are likely wrong; a leak would be a constant hiss or pop, not a rhythmic click only when moving.

You need a G-wagen specialist, not a general shop. The noise matching wheel speed points directly to a driveline issue. For manuals, try the G-wagen forums or search for "W463 service manual PDF." They can often be found in owner communities.
Reply 1
Oct 22, 2025 | 08:53 PM
  #3  
Quote: That cracked CV boot on your center driveshaft is a major clue. Even without noticeable play, a worn CV joint inside can make that exact ticking noise under acceleration. The exhaust shops are likely wrong; a leak would be a constant hiss or pop, not a rhythmic click only when moving.

You need a G-wagen specialist, not a general shop. The noise matching wheel speed points directly to a driveline issue. For manuals, try the G-wagen forums or search for "W463 service manual PDF." They can often be found in owner communities.
Thank you so much, Alexie. I'm trying to find a G wagon shop located around DC (DMV) area. Any recommendation is appreciated! I saw one in Boston, another one in Colorado based on YouTube. They're a bit far to me...
Reply 0
Subscribe
Currently Active Users (1)
 
story-0

6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-1

Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-2

Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-3

8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-4

Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-5

Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-6

Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-7

5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-8

Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-9

10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE