Audi Q5 Exhaust Flap Issues Cause Alarming Noise

I had a similar issue with my 2012 Audi Q3 2.0T last winter. Having some experience with exhaust systems, I recognized those symptoms immediately, the loud cold starts were a clear indicator. The fault turned out to be a defective exhaust flap actuator. The flap motor was stuck, causing the exhaust components to malfunction. The workshop diagnosed it using diagnostic equipment and found the exhaust flaps were not responding to commands properly. The repair involved replacing the flap actuator and checking the surrounding exhaust components for any exhaust blockage. Total cost came to 190 Euro including parts and labor. The repair resolved both the noise issue and the fault codes. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Q5, could you share: The exact fault codes shown, Whether you notice any difference in engine performance, If the noise changes at different RPM ranges, If there are any vibrations from the exhaust area These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if there might be other factors involved.

Thanks for the response. Just had my last service at 21106 KM, and this issue started shortly after. The fault codes are P2432 and P2433, and I do notice the engine performance drops slightly when the noise occurs. The exhaust flaps seem to make a rattling sound specifically between 2000-3000 RPM. I can feel slight vibrations from the rear, especially during acceleration. Based on your experience, it does sound similar to your case. Good to know the repair costs were reasonable. Did you notice any improvement in engine performance after the fix?

Thanks for those details. The fault codes and symptoms you describe are exactly what I experienced with my Q3. After replacing the flap actuator, I noticed several improvements: The engine performance returned to normal, the slight power loss completely disappeared. The flap motor working correctly allowed proper exhaust flow management, which directly impacts engine performance. The rattling noise between 2000-3000 RPM was resolved. This is typically where the exhaust valves are most active, so a failing actuator often shows symptoms in this range. The vibrations during acceleration went away too. When exhaust flaps malfunction, they can create irregular exhaust flow patterns causing those vibrations you mentioned. Since your symptoms match mine so closely, including the fault codes, Id strongly recommend getting the flap actuator checked. One tip: make sure they inspect all surrounding exhaust components while doing the repair. In my case, they found some minor carbon buildup that they cleaned during the service. The repair has been solid, no issues for over a year now, and the exhaust system works perfectly across all RPM ranges.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up. Yes, I did observe significant improvements after the repair. The engine went back to running smoothly and quietly, and the power loss issue completely resolved. The exhaust system now operates perfectly across all RPM ranges, with no more rattling or vibrations. Your experience with the fault codes P2432 and P2433 matches my situation exactly. Based on this and our matching symptoms, I feel confident moving forward with the flap actuator replacement. The 190 Euro repair cost seems reasonable, especially considering the potential damage that could occur if left unfixed. I will schedule the repair soon and make sure they check for carbon buildup in the surrounding exhaust components as you suggested. The success of your repair gives me confidence this will resolve my issues too. Will update once the work is completed in case other forum members experience similar problems in the future.