Engine rattle

[merlintilly]

I have a M version that has just started to suddenly rattle ,previously it has been super quite.It does not sound like the top end value lifters, vanos etc it is coming from deep down in the block. I have taken it into an agent and they are suggesting a complete engine strip to find the problem. Does anyone have any idea what it might be. The idea of someone striipmng the engine down and reassemlbling it horifies me after the experience I have had with other repairs.

 

[ZetaTre]

When does the rattle happens? Neutral, clutch pressed/depressed, while driving in gear?

 

[Incompatible]

When does the rattle happens? Neutral, clutch pressed/depressed, while driving in gear?

To add to Zeta Tre's question. If the rattle occurs during idle when you turn the car off, it's normal. (Transmission countershafts IIRC.) The easy way to check for this is to push the clutch in and hold it while you turn the engine off: no rattle = no problems.