SimSchm

Loud Exhaust and Error Code on S Klasse

My Mercedes S Klasse from is giving me some grief. I've got about 215471 km on it. The exhaust noise is way louder than usual, especially after a cold start it sounds like a tractor for a few minutes! Plus, there's an error code about the exhaust flaps in the memory. I'm guessing the exhaust flap is defective. Anyone else had this happen? How screwed am I, and what am I looking at in terms of repair?

4 comment(s)

Ugh, exhaust problems are the worst! I had a similar issue with my old BMW 3 series. The exhaust noise was driving me nuts! Turned out to be the flap actuator, it was completely shot. Does the error code specify which flap, or is it just a general 'exhaust flap' error? If it's the actuator, it could be a relatively easy fix, but getting to it might be a pain. I'd check the wiring to the flap actuator too. Could be a loose connection. But honestly, it probably IS the actuator. Those things are fragile!

Thanks for the reply! No, the error doesn't say which flap, just that there's a problem with the exhaust system flaps. Where exactly is the flap actuator located? Is it something I can even get to myself without a lift? I'm not a total dummy with cars, but I'm no mechanic either. Could that affect engine performance?

Yeah, that 'general' error is super annoying. On the BMW, the actuator was buried near the exhaust tips, but honestly, the Mercedes might be totally different. Without a lift, it's gonna be a HUGE pain. Seriously, you're probably better off having a shop take a look. Engine performance could be affected if the flaps are stuck closed, you might lose some power at higher RPMs. I'd get it checked out sooner rather than later. My exhaust repair ended up costing an arm and a leg because I ignored it for too long!

Okay, sounds like a trip to the workshop is in order. I was hoping it would be something simple, but I don't want to mess with the exhaust system myself and make it worse. The estimate I got was about 190€, which isn't as bad as I feared, so I will authorize the exhaust repair. Thanks for the advice!

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