Identify this rattle...

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Nov 19, 2002 | 10:22 AM

ex-quattro PETE

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From: Michigan, USA

Identify this rattle...

Only happens on cold start-up, and lasts about a second. Comes from under the hood. Sounds more plasticky rather than metallic.

I've heard some people mention belt tensioner? Is that it? Is it a warning sign that it's going bad and needs immediate attention?

Nov 19, 2002 | 10:27 AM

Silver Streakin'

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From: PA

cam belt tensioner. I still can't get a tech to actually hear it.

Nov 19, 2002 | 10:34 AM

paul_858

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as stated, cam belt tensioner... leave the car with the dealership overnight so in the AM they can

start it up and hear that noise.

it's going to only get worse and worse.

Nov 19, 2002 | 10:49 AM

skabaru

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yup cam belt tensioner...

it will eventually throw a DTC... and then, eventually, your car will stall on startup...

I have had it repalced twice, the current one is holding out much better... 25,000 so far...

Nov 19, 2002 | 11:21 AM

ex-quattro PETE

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From: Michigan, USA

are there any serious risks of damage to the engine when the tensioner fails?

Nov 19, 2002 | 11:25 AM

Chard

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From: Hawaii

does it sound like this?

kinda like a small chainsaw is in your engine bay...makes the noise when you turn your wheel from side to side, but goes away right when the car warms up a little?

My car JUST started this yesterday morning.

If it's the cam belt tensioner, how much is it to get replaced? DIY? I'm JUST out of warranty.

BTW, what does it do, besides create tension on the cam belt =P