Swirl Flaps: Common problem and solutions

There are a few thoughts on swirl flaps as to what is best for the car, and from our extensive experience we can tell you that there are two possible answers – read on …

A client brought his 1-series BMW into us that was not running well and there was an engine management light on, so we ran some diagnostics, and we found the car had recorded faults relating to swirl flaps.

These are a common issue and on the older BMW cars they could be removed with no ill effects to solve the problem, however on the newer vehicles like this particular 1-series, their operation is checked by the vehicle’s computer, so they do have to work properly.

After removing the intake manifold to visually check the condition and confirm the initial diagnosis, we discovered the intake manifold had become clogged with carbon build up preventing the plastic flaps from moving.  The mechanism had broken resulting in the symptoms that gave the customer cause to give us a call.

If this issue was left unresolved the plastic flaps can break off and enter the engine causing potential serious damage.

Fortunately our client called us as soon the issue occurred and once we had replaced the intake manifold with a new item the 1-series was back healthy and fault free again.

So there you have it – you can remove the swirl flaps in certain vehicles, but not in this case.

If you are driving around with an engine management light on, it’s best to get it checked out by your local garage as this may save you money.

We are of course available to inspect and run diagnostics from our Wellington, Somerset workshop – pop by or call us, we’d be happy to take a look.