What is the knocking noise at the back?

[mikem]

I have a 2003 X5 that I've had from new. About a year ago it developed a "rattle" at the back of the car.

Try as I might, I cannot find the source of it. Checks so far have included removing everything from the boot, and I do mean EVERYTHING. Spare wheel, CD Changer, NAV DVD, Traffic Master, Bluetooth, Tools, Roller Cover, etc. I have also removed the cover on the tow adapter and checked to see if the exhaust is loose underneath. The knock seems more noticeable on warm days, as if something works loose when it gets warm from the sun. I removed all the trim from the upper and lower tailgate to search for a loose wiring loom, again to no avail. I have learned to live with it but every now and again someone travelling in the car mentions it and it sets me off looking for it.
Recently I had someone sit in the back as I slowly drove around. They said that the "knock" appears to be coming from underneath the car towards the back in the centre. Any ideas would be gratfully explored!

[supersteve]

Sounds like the hatch has loosened up.

BTW I was able to visit your wonderful island 6-7 years ago. I would love to go back.

[richirich]

That would be the "infamous" rear hatch! Quite a few threads here for DIY to toake care of that!

This is only one of the many that are here! Scroll down once you click on the link. There is a much better thread and a newer one with pics, I just cant seem to find it! Hope this helps!

http://www.x5world.com/x5-e53-forum/...knocking+noise

RR

[richirich]

This was the thread I was looking for... Follow this and your problem should be gone!

RR


By KewlX5

http://www.x5world.com/x5-e53-forum/...ht=noise+hatch

[01blacks4]

guys i dont think this is the hatch, I too have the noise and have done EVERTHING to make sure the hatch is closed tight.

this sounds is more of a clunk, that a rattle and it comes from UNDER the truck....drive me nuts...when i find it ill let ya all know

marc

[mikem]

Thanks for the messages and the help. I'll certainly try the recommended "fixes". Having read all the threads and comments, the rattle in my car is worse when it's hot outside (most of the time in Cyprus!) not when it's cold as suggested in some of the responses. There is no rubber stopper adjacent to the top lock Mechanism so maybe that's it. I have tried shaking the lid when it's closed but it seems really well fitted and secure. I'll keep you posted on my progress.

[mikem]

Thanks for your input Marc, sounds like you and I have exactly the same problem.

[supersteve]

I just had a thought (can be dangerous @ times) Check your spare tire. Make sure it's to German Spec"s (guud-n-tight). If it's bouncing around it may be making the noise your complaining of.

[mikem]

Well I had a look at the car. Checked the rubber support pillars either side of the tailgate and adjusted them up a bit to make the lid a tighter fit. So far so good. I did a short test drive and no more rattle! It is mid evening here so cooler than in the daytime but it seems to have worked. I didn't need the furniture pads, just a quick adjustment to the rubber mounts. Thanks for all the suggestions, I've been listening to that noise for over a year and it just didn't sound as if it was coming from the tailgate itself but time and tomorrow's sunshine will confirm either way.

[Bassace]

I have the same problem. I could have written that exact first post. It sounds just like someone is hitting the rear quater panel with their knuckle. I've tried adjusting the rubber stops for the glass to no avail. I just turn up the radio at this point.