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It seems that most rattles can be seen to be caused by a loose bolt or nut, Objects such as bolts and small pieces of body deadener in a door wells, pillars and quarter panels often cause rattles. Door wells can be checked by striking the underside of the door with a rubber mallet. The impact made by the mallet will indicate if loose objects are in the doorwell.
All bolts and screws should be tightened periodically. In the event that tightening the bolts and screws located on such assemblies as the door hood and deck lid, does not eliminate the rattle, then the trouble is most likely caused by misalignment. The position of the doors, hoods and deck lids is adjustable and rubber bumpers are provided to help eliminate the possibility of rattles. Make sure that such bumpers are in position.
Rattles and squeaks are sometimes caused by the weather-stripping and anti squeak material that is "out of position" on the doors. Apply additional cement or other adhesives and take care to install the material or materials in the proper location or locations to eliminate this difficulty.
As a general rule in the auto maintenance trades it can be stated that most squeals and rattles can be eliminated by carefully going over the car, truck or sports utility vehicle once or twice a year and making it a solid practice of tightening all bolts, nuts and sheet metal screws joining the various panels and shrouds "under the hood".
Pay particular attention to the any bolts or fittings attaching the bumper or bumper units.
As well make sure that the door latches and striker plates are tight and also correctly adjusted. Again to note that rattles and squeaks are sometimes caused by weather stripping and anti squeak materials that have somehow slipped out of place. When such conditions do occur, apply additional cement or adhesives and install the material in its proper recommended position to eliminate this difficulty. Lastly if necessary, obtain new weather stripping and sound deadening materials from your local dealer or big box auto supply store or outlet. Install this with the proper or appropriately recommended proper type of cement as recommended by the auto manufacturer themselves for your climate and driving conditions.
In the end when it comes to the nuisance and irritation of rattles the story can be told of a young nephew who enjoyed cracking his "knuckles". His uncle scolded him and told him that you should not do that - its bad for the joints. The smart aleck kid told his senior "Uncle Henry that is a misconception. On the internet it is reported by experts that cracking your knuckles has no noticeable effect on them in the long run and is of little consequence". To which the uncle replied "You would be amazed what they do to adult's nerves". So is it with auto noises and rattles as these vehicles drive down the road, city streets or highway.
