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2021: Low Frequency Vibration

Discussion in 'Model 3' started by juniormarbles, Jan 12, 2021.

  1. juniormarbles

    juniormarbles Member

    Joined:
    Jan 3, 2021
    Messages:
    14
    Location:
    Vancouver BC
    Noticed this today: when standing still, there is a low frequency vibration (probably ≤ 40Hz) lasting about 2 seconds, then cycling through every 5-10 seconds thereafter. It seems to originate at a structurally-sensitive point that vibrates the frame of the car. Reminded me a bit of a sub-woofer in a car parked next to me.

    On another forum it was speculated that this is the heat pump in action.

    Any comments?

    P.S: AC was off when this happened, so must be something else
     
  2. Ampre Sand

    Ampre Sand Member

    Joined:
    Nov 18, 2016
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    Seattle
    I, too, get this on my 2021 when it wakes up after I pull open the driver’s side door. I suspect it is related to the heat pump, as turning off the A/C, waiting a bit, then turning it back on will cause the sound. It is like a subwoofer effect.
     
  3. techzelle

    techzelle Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2021
    Messages:
    28
    Location:
    Sunnyvale, CA
    I am getting this too. Parked, with spotify playing and fan blowing. Thought it was something wrong with the music. Turned down volume. Yes there was the rumble, about 2 seconds long, maybe 30 seconds apart.
     
  4. ShaitigerM3

    ShaitigerM3 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2021
    Messages:
    6
    Location:
    Winfield, IL
    Sheesh, will have to get the car from my wife and see if I can hear the same vibration. Thanks for sharing.
     
  5. techzelle

    techzelle Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2021
    Messages:
    28
    Location:
    Sunnyvale, CA
    Forgot to mention 2021 M3 Long Range, 2 weeks old. I was in the car a few minutes before

    Reminds me when I park and sit in a Prius without turning off the car. Initially it is on battery and silent, then eventually there is a low rumble as the gas engine starts.
     
  6. Cybr.Myk

    Cybr.Myk Member

    Joined:
    Aug 30, 2020
    Messages:
    126
    Location:
    Saskatoon
    Yeah, it’s the heat pump doing it’s thing. Even if your climate control was off it does stuff to regulate battery temps, if I’m not mistaken.
     
    • Informative x 1
  7. elptxjc

    elptxjc Member

    Joined:
    Dec 15, 2019
    Messages:
    706
    Location:
    El Paso, TX
    Happens to my brand new 2021 LR, so it's normal. I figured it was normal, but yes, it's a bit unnerving to hear (and FEEL) all those new noises initially.
     
  8. freeAgent

    freeAgent Member

    Joined:
    Oct 29, 2020
    Messages:
    110
    Location:
    SoCal
    I also have the rumbling in my 2021 and I believe it's the heat pump (and octovalve system) activating. I find it a bit annoying, but I'm fine making the tradeoff for better efficiency and lack of engine noise.
     
  9. Gvardaman

    Gvardaman Member

    Joined:
    Oct 30, 2020
    Messages:
    95
    Location:
    So. California
    Yep, me too. I was installing floor mats and heard it.
     

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