Rattling noise from engine or under car... HELP!

[jab3style]

So last night driving home from Reno, I pull into a gas station and realized there is this annoying loud rattling sound comming from underneath the car. My first thoughts is that it might be exhaust rattle becuase upon reving her a bit the noise goes away. It had no affect on the performance. She runs like a champ.

This morning I go start her up and the noise is gone. I figure it might only rattle if car is warmed up. Took her out on the highway and still no rattle, but now there is a check engine light...WTF.

This is the first time I ever had any problems with her. She has over 100k miles and regularly maintained. Any thoughts or ideas will be appreciated.

2003 frnt trash, 1.8t, manual. Revo stage 1,

[alexza4]

Sure does sound like it could be exhaust related, maybe a loose bolt... i'd say get her Vagged for starters.

[Hotel Guy]

Ive got the same issue. Havent gotten it scanned for codes yet. I get an intermittent CEL and think that its my CAT/O2 sensors. Im over 100k as well. Not looking forward to getting this fixed as I hear that CATs are pricey, but maybe I could find one in the classifieds because Im not looking to get a test pipe or do any non-OEM exhaust modifications.

[jab3style]

Well it can't be my cat. I have a test pipe. I do recall having a check light right after I had the timiing belt replaced. A week later it went away. Tech said the car adjust itself. I guess I'm gonna have to get her Vag'd.

[krew53]

Check your bolts on the test pipe... I had one come loose before causing a rattle.

[FireWire]

heatshield?

[jab3style]

Just figured it out... Ouch!!! Camshaft Tensioner. The rattle is comming from the back side of the head near the firewall. Spoke to a couple friends that had the same probs and the owner of the shop that cured it. Man this is about G to fix.

[yoogene83]

shitty!!!

[05A$SE]

flywheel?

[CO AVANT]

A grand to fix with installation included I hope. I got a new vvt cam tensioner for under $350. Install should take no longer than 3-4hrs.