'rattling' noise coming from dash by windshield

[bergnside]

so ive seen a few ppl make posts about noises they are having from their dash at the base of the windshield when they go over bumps or on rough roads.... my problem is different

i have a rattling noise coming from the passenger side of my dash by the base of the windshield WHENEVER I GET MY CAR UP TO HIGHWAYS SPEEDS... more specifically, 80Km/H. for some reason it almost ALWAYS kicks in at 80kph. sometimes it actually goes away if i get up to like 110-120ish but sometimes not. the point is, its highly annoying to have this noise distracting me (sometimes even audible over my stereo playing) whenever im driving on the highway or down roads with higher speed limits.

anyone know what the problem is and/or have suggestions on how to make this noise go away? id very much appreciate it
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[Donutz]

It sounds like you've done some searching, but keeping looking; also check m3f as there is an epic thread there about this. If I have a few mins I'll try and find you a few threads (or mgm might come along and help you out!).

I have the same thing, which is amplified by the fact that I have a stiffer motor mount and some nice rumble from my header. I believe the root cause of the issue is the cowl and that it does not fit well or is not spaced out well. When I get my windshield replaced I will attempt to fix the rattle while the cowl is off the car.

[bergnside]

what is a 'cowl'? everyone mentions this. what part is that?

[cwp_sedan]

what is a 'cowl'? everyone mentions this. what part is that?

It is the black plastic piece that sits between the hood/firewall and the windshield.

[bergnside]

i just went out and looked at it. the main 'cowl' is plastic and the ends are soft plastic (almost rubbery) HOW COULD IT MAKE THAT RATTLING SOUND? besides which, it feels pretty secure.

[Donutz]

Look through this thread: http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=130922.0

Although this is about the mazdaspeed, it is the same rattle that I have. When I take mine apart I will attempt to use double sided tape and some soft spacers to curb the rattling.

[bergnside]

Quote: "What's the matter Colonel Sanders? Chiiicken???"

response: PREPARE MAZDA 3....FOR LUDICROUS SPEED!!!!! HAHAHA

[Donutz]

Ha ha! You get it! I think most people don't, or won't admit it!

[notoriousb]

Is it a metalic rattling?

If you open up the panel under the steering wheel, you will see two metal bars that attatch on both sides of the steering coloum, jiggle it around and if you hear the noise, then use a 10mm or 12mm (i don't remember) ratchet and tighten them up.

Thats what was rattling in my car.

(also check if its any loose change that you have sitting around, or maybe your keys )

[-cj-]

If it happens with speed, your wheels might need to be re-balanced, lugs tightened, or one of your tires might be damaged...

Although something in your car probably needs to be secured, keep in mind that it's happening because your car is vibrating at high speed... Which it shouldn't really do...

[Jeff0]

Try check your passenger door bolts. Mine was loose.

[Krakor]

Do you have a hood deflector installed on your car?

That might cause it if you do. Those things flap like wings sometimes!

What about any other modifications? CAI? SRI? etc.?

Also what about the hood rod. If you don't snap it back into place, it can rattle.

Let me know.

[Kilo]

I am experiencing this exact same problem. Was there ever a solution to resolve the 'rattling' issue?

[cwp_sedan]

I am experiencing this exact same problem. Was there ever a solution to resolve the 'rattling' issue?

Please search. This has been covered many times before.

[cwp_sedan]

Just one of the threads with some detailed info.

http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?38542-2010-Windshield-Creaking-Cowel

[Kilo]

Hmm that was quite helpful. I did look around the forum and ill see if I can fix as per suggestions around the cowel. But like "burgnside" I only get the noise when I hit speeds of 80-plus km/h. I've never noticed it when I hit bumps or when the weather changes.

Thanks

I'll report my progress!

[format_windows]

Hi Kilo,

Any luck with the solution to this? I have the same issue on my 05 gs.

Thanks

[Kilo]

Hi Kilo,

Any luck with the solution to this? I have the same issue on my 05 gs.

Thanks

Yes! Sorry for being a poor forum member and not reporting my progress :(

Actually "cwp_sedan" sent me on the right track and I finally came to this page:
http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=130922.0

If you go to reply #22 you can see pictures of what you need to do! It seems to be an EPIC issue with the Mazda 3, however, like you I only experience the noise when I hit speeds of 80 km/h. I've never had a problem with it going over bumps or when the weather changes.

Also "Zoom Zoom boy" from this thread:
http://www.protegefaq.net/tsb/mt000005636.html
gives a link to the parts that need to be replaced as per Mazda.

I'll admit I'm not a mechanic so I had a buddy of mine do it while I "helped";) but basically replace the insulator pads on the 8 hooks of the cowl grill and going a little over-kill on the velcro tape insulation seems to do it!

This is a REALLY annoying problem that loads of people seem to encounter. I'm not gonna lie the time and effort you're going to put into fixing it is gonna put a stain on your love for Mazda. It did for me! But now that the annoying ticking is gone I have come to love my car again.