BMW i8 Exhaust Flap Failure: Solutions & Fixes

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars and had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW i3. My cousin also owns an M4, so I'm quite familiar with BMW's common quirks. When my exhaust flap started acting up, it was super annoying, loud noise and no response to controls, just like you're describing. I took it to my regular workshop and they diagnosed a faulty exhaust flap actuator. The whole repair, including parts and labor, set me back about 190 Euro, but it fixed the problem completely. Before jumping to conclusions though, could you share what error code you're getting? Also, when exactly did you start noticing the issue? This info would help me understand if you're dealing with the same problem I had. Just a heads up, these symptoms could also be related to the actuator's wiring or control module, not just the flap itself. Might be worth checking those too.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My i8 has 71546 KM on the clock, and I'm getting the error code P1450. Started noticing this racket about two weeks ago, right after my latest service actually. That's what makes it even more frustrating! I'll definitely get those wiring connections checked, didn't think about that. I've been avoiding aggressive driving and keeping it in eco mode for now, since the noise is really embarrassing, especially in quiet areas. Did your repair last long? I'm wondering if I should expect to leave my car at the workshop for several days.

Oh I totally get your frustration! Actually, my i3 had almost the same mileage (around 73K) when this happened. That P1450 code is exactly what I got too, what a coincidence! The repair itself didn't take that long at all. My workshop had it done in about 3-4 hours. The longest part was actually waiting for them to properly diagnose everything and make sure there weren't any other underlying issues. They did a full system check while they were at it. Funny you mention it started after a service, mine actually began acting up after I had some other work done too. Turned out one of the connectors wasn't properly secured during that previous job. The mechanic showed me how the connector had worked itself loose over time. Maybe worth asking your workshop to check if anything got disturbed during your recent service? The good news is, since my repair, I haven't had any issues with the exhaust system. Been running smooth for about 8 months now. Just make sure whoever does the work checks all the connections thoroughly, that's really the key here. Keep us posted on what you find out!

Here's how I'd respond Thanks for all that detailed info! That's really reassuring to hear it was just a 3-4 hour job for you. I'll definitely mention checking those connections from the recent service when I take it in. It makes total sense that something could've gotten knocked loose during the work. I've just booked it in for next week, and I'll make sure to ask them to do a full system check while they're at it. Really hoping it's just a loose connector like yours was, that would be the best case scenario! It's such a relief to hear your repair has held up well for 8 months. I'll keep you posted once I get the diagnosis and repair done. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's helped me feel a lot more confident about getting this sorted!