Body - Cracking/Creaking Noise From Convertible Top
SI B54 09 05Special Roofs
Technical Service
This Service Information bulletin supersedes Service Measure B54 200 03 dated March 2003.
SUBJECT
Convertible Top Noise
MODEL
E46 (3 Series) M3 Convertible
SITUATION
The customer complains of a creaking or cracking noise coming from the rear area of the convertible top when driving on a rough road.
CAUSE
The convertible top material can contact the trim on the stowage cover, and when the body flexes, such as on load changes or when entering a driveway at an angle, the material moves against the trim causing the noise. This generally occurs on the passenger side.
CORRECTION
On a customer complaint basis, insert a piece of a vacuum hose in the rear bow seal to give the seal more body which will hold the convertible top material up and away from the trim.
PROCEDURE
^ Release the rear bow seal from the side frame.
^ Slide a piece of vacuum hose, part number 51 73 1 470 037, approximately 1 meter long into the rear bow seal.
^ Reinstall the rear bow seal.
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