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I've been stricken with the evil B-Pillar rattle, and the dealership is really not cooperating...

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Old 07-20-2001, 02:42 PM
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Default I've been stricken with the evil B-Pillar rattle, and the dealership is really not cooperating...

My 01.5 A4 is all of like 6 weeks old, and I've had a rattle in the B-pillar (driver side) since like 200 miles, and I can't get it go away. I've brought it into the dealer 3 times to look at, and they sorta make a half *** attempt, and don't do anything. I've since been reading all the FAQ's and archives related to this rattle and have tried all the most common fixes (i.e. Silicon around the window frame, and reinstalling the B Pillar cover a half inch lower), but its still there. I have found that by removing the cover, the rattle stops, but can't figure out what exactly is tapping. For the past 3 weeks I've been stuffing a Jamba Juice napkin in a different place in the door, window, etc., but no luck yet.

So, I finally figured, I would make an appointment at the dealership, and make them do it right. They said they had nothing available until the END OF AUGUST! What the F*@#! I'm not even in town that week, so I have an appointment for September 4th, more than 6 weeks from now.

Is this normal? Should I try another dealership? Can I just get a new B-Pillar cover and have it covered under warranty? How about an independent place, will AoA reimburse me if someone else fixes it? Should I call and bitch at AoA?

Help and advice is appreciated.

-Mike
'01.5 A4 1.8TQSMXC
Old 07-20-2001, 02:48 PM
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Default I can probably fix it.. but only if you're in NY

otherwise, here's what you use..
windo-weld ribbon sealer by 3M
take the B pillar off using the torx screws,
and put this stuff in between the metal of
the B pillar and the body.
Old 07-20-2001, 03:00 PM
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Default First find a better dealership! Then take the tech on a test drive with you. That's how i finally

got my rattel fixed.
Old 07-20-2001, 03:05 PM
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Default some answers

Yes.. the infamous b-pillar, makes me want to get a M-B as my next car. It's obliviously not normal to have that rattle but it's common. I found most of the rattle comes from the seatbelt track rattling against the movable seat belt anchor. I really do not think replacing the b-pillar cover will resolve the issue since I don't believe that's where the rattling noises are coming from.

I believe it's a design flaw of the b-pillar and unless it's really bugging you I would not go as far as I did.

I am working on something right now and I am close to a fix. I will keep you all posted.
Old 07-20-2001, 03:11 PM
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Default Kenny, send me an email when you get a solution (as I might miss the post)

The rattle right behind my head is definitely not something I can live with for too much longer.

Mike
01.5 A4 1.8TQSMXC
Old 07-20-2001, 03:14 PM
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Default Unfortunately, I'm not in NY... Is the ribbon-weld sealer a tape or gel type product?

i.e. Will it show externally when applied? Will it come off in a car wash?
Is this something that I should be able to find in most outoparts stores, or will I need to special order it? If so, from where?

Thanks

Mike
01.5 A4 1.8TQSMXC
Old 07-20-2001, 03:20 PM
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will do.
Old 07-20-2001, 03:26 PM
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Default when you said removing the b-pillar cover...

you mean the plastic interior one or the external metal one??
Old 07-20-2001, 03:28 PM
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External Metal one
Old 07-20-2001, 03:31 PM
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totally agree... my (ex)dealer is worthless so that's why I did it myself.


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