CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette Forum Discussion

Corvette: The Ultimate Rattling Noise Guide

Isolating the cause of rattles can be the difference between an enjoyable Sunday drive and your worst on-road nightmare. With the right techniques and tips, it's something that you can handle without making a trip to the dealership.

By Nick Mason - January 22, 2015

This article applies to the Corvette C5 (1997-2004), C6 (2005-2013), and C7 (2014-2015).

Sometimes, one of the most challenging parts of Corvette ownership is dealing with squeaks and rattles. Rough road conditions, extreme temperatures, and improper removal/installation of components are some of the most common causes of shakes and rattles. Because the Corvette is a performance vehicle with performance suspension and a rigid structure, some squeaks and rattles are common. There is a lot more impact on the vehicle's interior and exterior components compared to your average daily driver. Here are some common locations of rattles related to Corvettes.

Convertible Top

A squeak and rattle at the rear of the convertible top can be caused by the seal making contact with the tonneau cover strip. These components can wear overtime and begin to squeak. To resolve the issue, remove the old seal, clean the surface and install a new stow compartment lid protector.

Figure 1. Rear of convertible top; seal is indicated.

Roof Panel Handles

A snap, pop or rattle noise that comes from the removable roof panel can usually be isolated to the front left and/or right handles. The noise is caused by loose nylon rollers inside of the handles that start to move and make a noise. To resolve this issue, replace the right and left roof panel handles and lubricate all contact points around the roof panel.

Figure 2. Location of left and right roof panel handles.

Rear Quarter Panel

A rattle that comes from the passenger side's rear of the vehicle can be associated with the plastic molding in the door jamb near the right rear quarter panel vent. When the plastic molding vibrates, it rattles. To resolve this issue, remove the screw and insert a small rubber washer between the plastic molding and body panel, then re-install the screw.

Figure 3. Rear right quarter panel vent.

Window Regulator

A rattle noise only when rolling the window down can be related to the inside of the door panel and can occur with both the left and/or right window. To resolve this issue, remove the door panel and replace the window regulator.

Figure 4. Replacing the window regulator.

Rear Sway Bar End Links

A knocking or rattle noise when going over bumps can be the rear of the vehicle resonating from under the chassis. The noise is commonly caused by faulty rear sway bar end links. The bushings become worn and allow the links to make noise while going over bumps. To resolve this issue, replace the rear sway bar end links.

Figure 5. Rear sway bar (blue).

Center Dash Console

A rattle from the center dash console is caused by the plastic tabs at the top of the console that hold the panel in place. Overtime, the tabs become loose and cause the panel to rattle. To resolve this issue, install rubber tape or replace the center console if tabs are completely broken/damaged.

Figure 6. Center dash console.

Common Questions

How do I prevent rattles and noises?

The best way to prevent noises is to be sure that contact points around the vehicle (hinges, handles, fittings) are lubricated on a regular basis. Also, try your best to avoid large bumps and potholes, and keep the vehicle in a temperature controlled area.

Do rattles indicate poor quality?

No, rattles do not necessarily mean your vehicle is poorly built. Because performance vehicles are so much more rigid than the average vehicle, components tend to wear, vibrate and shake loose, causing rattles.

Pro Tip

Have an assistant drive the vehicle while you use a section of a garden hose or heater hose propped up against your ear to try and isolate the area that the noise is coming from. The hose should be 5-6 feet long so that you can place the hose in various areas around the vehicle.

Related Discussion and Sites