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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

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funker
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by funker » Tue Jun 01, 2021 3:43 pm

I noticed an odd noise coming from the engine bay the other day, ended up recording a quick video:

https://youtu.be/y4Cf5jevlQM

It appears to only happen on low RPMs, hitting anything above 2500 makes the odd rattle go away. Considering it's so loud and there have been no dash lights come on, I ran an OBD reader that worked to no avail as nothing came up. Has anyone heard something similar in their Z4 or know what it might be? Will be taking it into a shop once I can find one here on my college campus.
'03 2.5i SMG @ 110k mi

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Smartbear
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by Smartbear » Tue Jun 01, 2021 6:20 pm

I wouldn’t be driving that until i found out what it was, could be a loose camchain etc.
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dhobbs
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by dhobbs » Tue Jun 01, 2021 7:03 pm

Strut braces can come loose, good idea to check all bolts are tightened up.
Are the heat shield attached OK.
I had an issue with the exhaust bolts rusting through and the bracket rattling.
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Haro
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by Haro » Tue Jun 01, 2021 9:31 pm

Sounds like the disa.

funker
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by funker » Wed Jun 02, 2021 4:34 am

Yup, checked the DISA valve and that was the issue! Replacement is on the way.
'03 2.5i SMG @ 110k mi

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colb
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Odd rattle in engine bay from low RPMs

Post by colb » Wed Jun 02, 2021 8:48 am

So it was the infamous Clacking Disa Valve, a sure sign its failed. Using a Mechanics stethascope to pinpoint the noise or a screwdriver with the handle placed against the ear and the blade touching the suspect areas of the engine would hgave been an aid to diagnosing the problem. When they do fail they certainly make what is described as a clacking noise, its the valve flap dancing about inside that produces the clacking.
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