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MG ZR ZS ZT Technical - Ticking Noise

Hi

I have started getting a ticking noise on my 51 plate ZS+ doing speed <= 20 mph. I have not noticed the noise at higher speeds. The tick is in time with wheel revolution, but it is intermittent, like it misses a tick now and again, but apart from the odd miss it is pretty constant.

I cannot work out where it is coming from, but it sounds like around the dashboard area. (I think it is quite difficult to pinpoint a noise source in a car :o)

The car still handles fine :o/

Any ideas?

Thanks
DemonTraitor

Hi DT

Difficult to say, because as you quite rightly point out, car noises are a helluva job to pinpoint. First the obvious: you say that the tick is in time with wheel rotation speed, is it not something stuck in one of your front tyres? A nail etc can make a ticking noise with every rotation. Secondly, if the noise is truly coming from the dash, it is likely to be the speedo cable and or gear set.

Mister T

Check your tyres quickly

Neil

I will check my tyres, but it sounds too "in-the-cabin" to be a nail or something. Also the sound does go away at speed.

I also thought it might be something to do with the speedo bits and pieces.

I may end up putting it in the garage, but i have a feeling it will be one of those noises that will never be worked out unless by fluke.

:o/
DemonTraitor

check the wheel nut cover plates these can be a loose fit, try driving slowly with the windows down, also check for nails in the tyres.
M.
Mike (Mersea)

Hi DT
I to had the very same ticking at low speed and had convinced myself it was coming from the speedo cable
but thuoght it might be coming from a driveshaft.
Today the car had both its constant velocity joints replaced due to an ABS problem (see other thread )
and yes you have guessed it , the ticking has gone !!!
cheers
iain
iain mitchell 1

Thanks for the info. The ticking is still there after checking different things. So maybe I should look into this. Is it an expensive job?

Thanks
DemonTraitor

Take it to a mg specialist

if it's a problem they will suss it out.

they shouldnt charge for a look/ listen!

Neil

Hi DT
I am afraid the constant velocity joints are expensive in the region of £150 plus fitting.However as per other advice probably best to get dealer to check.
I was lucky and had repair done under warranty .

cheers

iain
iain mitchell 1

Smeg :o(

I am out of warranty now. Oh well, I will pop into the garage this weekend.

Thanks
DemonTraitor

This thread was discussed between 19/05/2005 and 30/06/2005

MG ZR ZS ZT Technical index