Active Exhaust Rattle Killing Your Scat Pack Sound? Try This
This video shows how to diagnose and fix an annoying rattle coming from the Active Exhaust system on a 2019 Dodge Charger Scat Pack. The walkthrough locates the source (usually the exhaust valve/actuator and linkage or bushings), tightens or replaces worn linkage hardware, and reassembles while verifying the rattle is gone.
Build Sequence
1. Confirm and reproduce the rattle
Drive or rev the engine in various exhaust modes to confirm the rattle and approximate location (usually rear/muffler area where the active valve is). Listen from outside the vehicle and undercarriage to narrow down the source.
2. Safely raise and support the vehicle
Park on level ground, apply parking brake, lift the rear of the car with a floor jack and support securely on jack stands so you can access the underside and the active exhaust actuator area.
3. Remove belly pan/heat shields to access actuator
Remove plastic belly pan/undertray fasteners and any heat shields obstructing access to the actuator and linkage using the socket set and screwdrivers. Keep hardware organized for reinstallation.
4. Inspect the actuator, linkage, and bushings
Visually inspect the exhaust valve motor, connecting rod, bushings/grommets, and mounting bolts for play, wear, or broken parts. Wiggle the linkage to identify looseness or broken isolators that cause rattling.
5. Tighten or replace linkage hardware
If linkage is loose, tighten the jam nut or replace the securing nut with a nylock/jam nut and apply medium threadlocker. If the rubber bushing is worn, remove it and install the new grommet. Replace the actuator only if it is seized or damaged.
6. Reassemble and road-test
Reinstall belly pan and any removed heat shields, lower the vehicle, and perform a test drive with the active exhaust cycling to ensure the rattle is resolved. Re-torque fasteners if needed and re-check after a short drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the repair take?
For a DIYer with basic tools, expect about 60–90 minutes from lift to test drive if only tightening or replacing a small bushing/hardware. Replacing the actuator can take longer if bolts are corroded.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →What usually causes the active exhaust rattle on a Scat Pack?
Most commonly it's a loose or worn exhaust valve linkage bushing or a loose fastener on the actuator—rarely the actuator motor itself. Vibrations allow metal-on-metal contact that sounds like a rattle.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →Can I drive the car if it has this rattle?
You can drive it temporarily, but continued driving may worsen wear or cause the actuator/linkage to fail. It's best to inspect and fix the problem soon to avoid further damage.
VIEW FULL ARTICLE →Related Builds
Parts Used (3)
Replace only if actuator is damaged or seized. Often the actuator itself is fine and the linkage/bushing is the cause.
Small rubber isolator that wears and allows rattles; inexpensive replacement that often cures the noise.
Used to secure the linkage rod and prevent loosening; recommended to use threadlocker or a self-locking nut.