Metallic Clicking During Light Acceleration

Hi C Owners-

Does anyone experience a metallic clicking sound when accelerating from a dead stop?

I purchased my C 3 at the end of March. I've put about 5500 miles on it- and have had zero issues aside from a minor dash rattle. I was recently involved in an accident- a driver pulled out of a parallel parking spot, striking my C from the passenger side door to the rear wheel well.

Since the accident, I've noticed a metallic clicking sound coming front the front of the car (sounds like engine, passenger side) during light acceleration. It's most noticable when accelerating from a dead stop under electric only power. It's a series of 3-5 clicks- almost sounds like a paperclip tapping on the hood or frame. The sounds seems worse when the car is not warmed up.

I'm not entirely certain this sound is the result of the accident- it's possible (but unlikely) that I didn't notice it in the first few months of ownership. According to my body shop, the damage was determined to be cosmetic. After a lengthy insurance dispute (it was a hit and run, he was later apprehended by police and lied about his insurance provider) I've gotten my vehicle fixed. Still have the clicking sound.

I plan on taking it to the dealer. Before I start complaining, I'm curious if this is a normal sound or perhaps a known issues.

Thanks for your help!

 

Thank you for the suggestions. Here's an update:

I took my C to the dealer for the 5000 mile service and mentioned the sound to the mechanic. They checked the wheels and oil, and said everything looks great. They took the car for a spin around the block and said the only noise they heard came from the regenerative brakes- which can make quiet clicks during acceleration. Doesn't anyone else experience this?

I trust my dealer, but am unsure whether they hear what I'm hearing. I didn't ride in the car with them, and if the sound continues or worsens, I'll be sure to have them join me to identify the noise. I'm also going to try and shoot a video the next time it happens. I'm somewhat certain this is a new sound, as I never noticed it for the first 5000 miles.

It seems to be louder at certain times, but I've been unable to find a pattern in the volume. Sometimes it occurs when the engine is cold, other times after I've been running the car for 30 minutes to an hour. It sounds mechanical- and is definitely tied to speed change. I don't hear it when coasting, I'll occasionally hear it when decelerating, almost always when accelerating under EV.