VW Caddy Owners: Exhaust Noise Linked to Faulty Flaps

Having some experience with VW repairs, I faced a similar issue with my 2017 VW Golf. The symptoms were nearly identical, increased exhaust noise and rough running when cold. After diagnostic testing, the workshop confirmed a faulty exhaust flap motor, which was causing improper valve operation in the exhaust system. The repair involved replacing the flap motor and recalibrating the exhaust control system, which cost 190€ in total. The exhaust flap issue definitely impacted engine performance, particularly during cold starts. If left unaddressed, these symptoms can potentially lead to more serious exhaust blockage problems or damage to other exhaust components. The repair resolved all issues, the exhaust noise returned to normal levels and the engine smoothness improved significantly. The check engine light also cleared after the fix. To provide more specific advice about your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your Caddy, Whether you notice any specific driving conditions that make the noise worse, If there are any other warning lights on the dashboard, The specific error code stored in the system This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced and whether similar repairs might be needed.

Last service was at 136000km and I am now at 137676km. The noise gets worse when accelerating hard and there is a noticeable drop in engine performance. The flap motor seems to be the main issue according to the error code P2432. The exhaust valves make a rattling sound that was not present before. Looking at the exhaust components underneath, everything appears intact with no visible damage to the exhaust system.

Thanks for providing those details. Looking at your symptoms and error code, it definitely mirrors what I experienced with my Golf right before the repair. The P2432 code specifically points to the exhaust flap actuator position sensor circuit, which matches the symptoms you described. The rattling sound from the exhaust valves is particularly telling, I had the same issue when my flap actuator started failing. The performance drop during acceleration occurs because the exhaust flow isnt being properly regulated, affecting engine back pressure. In my case, the workshop found that the flap actuator had seized due to carbon buildup and moisture exposure. Given your mileage is similar to what mine was when the issue occurred (around 135000km), its likely the same root cause. The good news is that replacing the flap actuator completely resolved the engine performance issues and eliminated that annoying rattling noise. Since your exhaust components appear intact, you probably wont need any additional repairs beyond the actuator replacement. Just make sure the workshop performs proper calibration of the new flap actuator after installation. This is crucial for optimal exhaust flow control and engine performance.

Thanks for the detailed explanation. The symptoms match exactly what I am experiencing, especially the actuator issue and performance impact. I will schedule an appointment with my workshop this week to have the flap actuator replaced. Good to know the exhaust components themselves likely wont need replacement, though I will ask them to check for any carbon buildup while they are working on it. Appreciate the tip about making sure they calibrate the new actuator, will definitely mention that. Getting this fixed should resolve both the exhaust noise and the engine performance issues I have been noticing during acceleration.