Mine is a 2001 with 22200 miles and when I'm idling at a red light or parked, it sounds like its chugging (if Im decribing it correctly). I just hear it going dig, dig , dig, dig , dig , and not a smooth monotone sound coming from the exhaust. Everthing I have is stock. But I went to a dealership today and saw their 2002 model which was doing the same thing. What can be done about this? Or is this normal? I mean the car looks sharp and I dont want it to sound like its an old fart when standing still.

 

That's the nature of the boxer engine (if you are describing what I think that you are).

 

You are hearing the metal timing chain. That's just how they sound.

 

This is one reason why so many get new exhaust. Three options:

1. New exhaust (and/or other mods.),
2. Crank the stereo,
3. Live with it!

 

I just called a repair friend of mine and he said if I change the spark plugs and maybe the diverter valve it will sound ever so smooth. Is he wrong then?

What about you guys with aftermarket exhausts like the remus... does it also sound this way?

 

I have the Evo exhaust with no cats, it gurgles or rumbles at idle but smooth sounding until you get on it. I did notice that when my plugs were shot and maf sensor, it was very rough at idle, i think you may need plugs!