[seadan]

I have a 2013 X3 2.8i, and the exhaust recently started rattling loudly on idle. Is this the exhaust flap/baffle/valve? All major exhaust components appear tight.

What's the best fix to resolve this noise?

Video of the noise:
https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-...rXS3s-1280.mp4

[383vett]

Have to put it on a lift or crawl underneath to isolate the noise.

[seadan]

After some further investigation, it looks like the issue is with the vacuum activated exhaust flap. Very similar to what's shown in this video:

Unplugging that component from the trunk resolves the rattle. That seems to be a resolution from the existing threads I found on this -- but I was hoping for a proper (DIY) fix/repair. Anyone have experience with this or tips on how to test the system to find the fault? If it's been documented before i seem to be coming up short in my searches...

[thenew3]

My wife's 2016 has had this exhaust rattle issue since new. But it only happens on cold start. Goes away after a couple of minutes. Dealer couldn't find cause after a couple visits. So wife just decide to live with it.

[F25_x3]

I just zipped tied mine to always open. I thought they would melt but they are still there a few months later

[r0bert0e]

I am having this same exact issue and will be following this thread. Please let me know if you have any luck.

[seadan]

Originally Posted by r0bert0e

I am having this same exact issue and will be following this thread. Please let me know if you have any luck.

Seems like this is a common one, but no real solution other than replacing the exhaust. I spoke with my shop foreman about this, and he actually recommended just capping the vacuum line (see "bmw golf tee mod") and being done with it. According to him the flapper's only use is in noise reduction to meet some EU city noise ordinances...I can't vouch for that but there's much discussion on this mod online.

If anyone does know of a more proper fix that doesn't require replacing the exhaust, I'm all ears!

[AF4iK]

Is the rod supposed to be at full extension for the flap to be open?

[UPDATE] Nevermind, answered my own question. Yes, it is extended when open.

[f25joe]

Originally Posted by F25_x3

I just zipped tied mine to always open. I thought they would melt but they are still there a few months later

Where did you use the zip-ties to keep the valve open? Also, how did you open the valve all the way to zip-tie it?

[iagafoor]

Originally Posted by thenew3

My wife's 2016 has had this exhaust rattle issue since new. But it only happens on cold start. Goes away after a couple of minutes. Dealer couldn't find cause after a couple visits. So wife just decide to live with it.

I got into this issue today. I came to pick my daughter in Montreal and need to drive back home 600km , Cambridge, Ontario. Would it be ok to drive ? I am a visitor to Montreal and so checking with your experience. I can fix it after reaching home if the issue is minor.
Appreciate all for your advices. Thanks and Merry Christmas to all who celebrate

[tracer bullet]

It should be OK to drive with, yes. More of an annoyance than a true problem.

[iagafoor]

Originally Posted by tracer bullet

It should be OK to drive with, yes. More of an annoyance than a true problem.

Thanks. I reached home without troubles. It sounds at low rpm yet. Going to check myself first.

[iagafoor]

I checked today. It is exactly as Seadan’s video clip. Minor issue but annoying. There is hook that control open/close of valve through electrical power. This hook is loosen and vibrate at low rpm making this noise. I tried easy method like filling the gap with thick paper and rubber made. I did not want to wrap the assembly thinking it may disturb the actuator function. No success with paper.. so wrapped with metail wire around.. did not tight too strong to leave open/close still to function.. it’s worked out .. still it’s a workaround solution .. replacing this clip would be a permanent solution.. or any other method..

My concern with completely disconnecting the electrical supply, may create other issue . If anyone can comment on this .. that will make me to make comfort decision

[mayhewt11]

Yup zip tied it to always open, fixed to me