12 Volvo XC70 3.2. Anyone have an idea what this rattle is? It's coming from around the intake manifold area. Have a listen. (Sound file is attached)

 

not a clue from listening to the audio. Suggest a few things - does the vibration change with engine speed? Can you feel around for any loose trim or components? Have you popped off the covers to the coils, the timing belt cover etc to see if the sound changes? You can also try using a hose or a tube as a listening device to see if you can pin point a source area and go from there (lol, stickin your ear close to a running engine is not advised).

 

Lol, I learned that lesson the hard way a few years back. I used a Lisle stethoscope to pinpoint the sound coming from the intake manifold. Turns out, it was a piece of plastic from the intake actuator that was causing that ruckus. Dislodged itself from the actuator motor and made its way to the intake entrance flapping around wildly. It's a miracle it didn't go into the engine

 

glad this worked out. Thanks for sharing the update.