VW T6 Rough Start & Loud Exhaust Points to Flap Issue

Having dealt with a similar exhaust flap issue on my VW Passat 2.0 TSI from 2018, I can share some insight. The symptoms you describe match what I experienced, especially that distinct exhaust noise and rough running after cold starts. My case was indeed a defective exhaust flap system. The flap motor had failed, causing the exhaust flaps to stay in one position. This created those exact symptoms, louder exhaust noise and uneven running, particularly noticeable during cold starts. The repair involved replacing the flap motor in the exhaust system. Total cost was 190€, including parts and labor. The workshop completed the repair in about 2 hours. After fixing it, the exhaust noise returned to normal and the engine ran smoothly again. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Have you noticed any warning lights on the dashboard? What exact error code did the diagnostic show? Does the noise change when accelerating? How long has this been happening? This information would help confirm if your issue matches the exhaust flap problems I encountered with my vehicle.

Last serviced at 20638km and had similar concerns. The mechanic confirmed it was a faulty exhaust flap actuator causing those exact symptoms. The error code turned out to be P2070, indicating a problem with the exhaust control system. The exhaust flaps were completely stuck, leading to irregular exhaust flow and that rough running. The repair involved replacing the actuator and checking the exhaust components for any additional damage. Worth checking if the exhaust valves are moving freely before replacing parts. After the exhaust repair, engine performance returned to normal and the noise levels dropped back to factory spec. The cold start roughness completely disappeared. Total repair time was about 3 hours and parts availability was good through official channels. Important to know: The workshop mentioned that postponing repairs can lead to more severe exhaust blockage issues down the line, potentially affecting other exhaust components.

Thanks for sharing your repair experience. The P2070 code on your T6 matches exactly what happened with my Passat, confirms we were dealing with the same exhaust flap issue. After the repair on my car, I started doing regular checks of the exhaust flap operation during oil changes. A quick visual inspection can catch early signs of flap motor wear before it fails completely. The exhaust valves should move smoothly when actuated. One thing I noticed post-repair: the exhaust system stayed trouble-free for about 40000km now. The workshop used an updated version of the flap motor that seems more durable than the original part. Good call getting it fixed promptly. Several Passat owners in my local group reported additional exhaust system damage from running too long with faulty flaps. The repair cost tends to increase significantly if the exhaust flaps cause damage to surrounding components. The factory spec noise levels and smooth cold starts you mentioned mirror my experience after the repair. Definitely worth the investment to prevent more extensive exhaust repairs later.

The symptoms you describe with the exhaust flaps definitely match what others reported. My P2070 error code pointed directly to the exhaust control system, just like in your case. Good to know replacement parts are readily available. I appreciate you sharing the repair timeline and aftermath. Just had the work completed yesterday, 3 hours labor time matches what my workshop quoted. The exhaust noise has already returned to normal levels and those rough cold starts are gone. Really relieved the flap motor replacement fixed both issues. Your suggestion about regular exhaust component checks during maintenance makes sense. Will definitely have them inspect the exhaust flaps and valves during future services. Rather catch any problems early than risk damage to other exhaust system parts. The total repair cost came to 195€ at my workshop, pretty close to what you paid. Seems like a fair price considering the specialized work involved with the exhaust flaps. Hopefully this updated flap motor design holds up better than the original. Thanks for helping confirm my initial suspicion about the exhaust system being the culprit. Having your experience as a reference made me more confident about proceeding with the repair.