SQ5 Exhaust Flap Issue Causes Inconsistent Sound

Had a similar issue with my 2015 S5 TFSI. With some experience working on Audis, I recognized these symptoms immediately, the inconsistent exhaust noise is often a telltale sign of exhaust flap problems. My car showed the same behavior, louder exhaust noise during cold starts and intermittent volume changes. The workshop confirmed a faulty exhaust flap actuator after running diagnostics. They had to replace the actuator and reprogram the exhaust control module. Total repair cost was 190 Euro including labor. The repair resolved both the noise issues and the fault code. More importantly, it prevented potential damage to the exhaust system that could have affected engine performance long-term. Which engine variant does your SQ5 have? This would help determine if the repair process would be similar. Also, have you noticed any changes in engine performance or fuel consumption since these symptoms started? A proper diagnosis is crucial here, might be worth having the workshop check the exhaust flap wiring and connections first, as sometimes the issue can be solved without full actuator replacement.

Latest service was performed at 12000 KM. The issue started occurring shortly after. My car throws the exact same error codes you mentioned. Thanks for the detailed reply about the exhaust flap actuator replacement. I also notice the inconsistent noise levels, particularly when the exhaust system is cold. The flap motor seems to be making clicking sounds occasionally, which wasnt present before. No changes in engine performance or fuel consumption noticed. Workshop appointment scheduled for next week to check for possible exhaust blockage and inspect the complete exhaust system.

Good to hear you've got a workshop appointment scheduled. When my S5 had similar symptoms, those clicking sounds from the exhaust flap motor were exactly what I experienced before the full failure. Since your service history and symptoms match so closely with what I encountered, its likely the same exhaust flap actuator issue. The timing after your service is interesting, sometimes the exhaust system inspection during service can disturb aging actuator components, leading to these problems. While they'll check for exhaust blockage, in my experience with these TFSI engines, its rarely the primary issue when combined with those specific error codes and clicking sounds. One thing I learned during my repair, its worth having them check the actuator wiring connections first. Sometimes debris or heat-related issues can affect the electrical connections, causing similar symptoms. In my case, though the wiring was fine, the actual exhaust flap mechanism had worn out. Since youre not experiencing performance issues like I initially did, youve caught this at a good time. The repair should be straightforward, likely similar to the 190 Euro range I mentioned earlier.

Thanks for sharing your experience and the repair cost details. Its reassuring to hear similar exhaust noise symptoms were resolved through actuator replacement. I checked my vehicle info and its the 3.0 TFSI engine variant. Based on the clicking sounds from the exhaust flap motor and inconsistent noise levels youve described, it does sound very similar to my situation. The timing after the service is concerning, but at least no engine performance issues have developed. Ill make sure to have them check both the wiring connections and exhaust blockage during next weeks appointment. The workshop mentioned they regularly deal with exhaust flap actuator issues on these models. Hopefully the repair costs stay within that 190 Euro range you mentioned. Its better to address this now before it potentially causes more extensive exhaust system damage. Ill update once the workshop completes their diagnostic work and repair.