rattling sound when accelerating

[Laura Tanner]

I have a 2003 VW Jetta, 1.8 Turbo. All of a sudden, there is a rattling noise (from the engine I think) whenever I accelerate. It's especially noticeable going uphill. Any ideas of what the problem might be?

Thank you

[ctuagent117]

maybe spark plugs. have you changed them yet? or maybe timing belt. sounds like you need a tune up. could be engine or turbo mount. id start off with a tune up.

[ctuagent117]

you didnt say how many miles u have

[veedubmechanic]

check the exhaust system. there is a mount right after the cat. that normally breaks and causes annoying rattles

[Laura Tanner]

Originally Posted by ctuagent117

maybe spark plugs. have you changed them yet? or maybe timing belt. sounds like you need a tune up. could be engine or turbo mount. id start off with a tune up.

The car has 31,000 miles. About a month ago, it got a 30,000 mile service. I don't know if they changed plugs then.

[Laura Tanner]

Originally Posted by veedubmechanic

check the exhaust system. there is a mount right after the cat. that normally breaks and causes annoying rattles

If it were the exhaust system, would you expect the rattle to be worse upon acceleration?

[ctuagent117]

yes, it would be worse uphill. its too early for timing belt or sparkplugs. wouldn't hurt to get the exhaust pipes checked out. nice diagnosis V-dub

[Laura Tanner]

Originally Posted by veedubmechanic

check the exhaust system. there is a mount right after the cat. that normally breaks and causes annoying rattles

Good call! Here's what the VW dealer said: Bolts for the exhaust manifold to the turbo loose, and the gasket was worn. Rethreaded the hole in the bracket holding the intake pipe and secured.

Thank you!

[shaz_mtl]

Hi, I have a 97 Trek with the same problem. The dealer in Montreal told me it was a loose heat shield making that noise. I'm poing to have it fastened more securely this week-end and will let you know if the noise stops. He said to remove the shield would cause the wires to melt eventually so that's obviously not an option.