Aside from the electric motor hum, tire noise, wind noise, Tesla cars are known for their smooth and silent operation. But what’s not fun is that weird rattling footwell noise, or noise from behind the trim pieces.
Tesla rattling noise can be caused by loose seat brackets or latches, issues with ball joints, struts, or strut mounts, problems with sway bar links, and loose wires or clips in door panels.
Quick View:
- Anything from loose seat brackets or latches, issues with ball joints, struts, or strut mounts, problems with sway bar links, and loose wires or clips in door panels cause the Tesla rattling noise.
- Simple DIY fixes can make the rattling noises go away.
What Are the Common Rattling Noises in Tesla and the Variations?
Some users have complained about rattling noises in their Tesla. However, others have not noticed any such issues. The Tesla rattling noise people complaint about is as follows:
- Rattling sounds may occur when traveling on uneven roads.
- Rattling in the footwell area beneath the steering wheel.
- Loose wires in the door panels and broken or out-of-place clips can cause rattling sounds in the door panels.
- Rattling in the front wheel well and fender liner joint, especially in the Model 3.
- The passenger door speaker and tweeter can also be sources of rattling noises in the Model 3.
- Rattling in the driver-side footwell area against the AC vent. Another model 3 problem.
- Rattling in the rear seat belts.
- One user on the Tesla Motors Club forum mentioned hearing a rattling sound in the front left tire area. Especially when driving with the windows open.
- A Reddit user in the r/teslamotors subreddit mentioned that their Model 3 only rattles when the cover is open.
- Rear deck creaking noise.
- People have reported experiencing rattles and clunks in their Tesla that are the same as rattles in R1T electric trucks.
These are the types of rattling noises that you may find in a Tesla.
What Causes the Tesla Rattling Noise? (Solutions Added)
The rattling noise in Tesla vehicles can be caused by various factors. These are discussed below:
1. Loose Seat Brackets Or Latches
When riding on uneven roads, rattling sounds may occur owing to loose seat brackets or latches.
Solution
- A poorly fitting metal bracket on the back seat can be fixed with rubber bungee cords. You can also press the seat back button to release the seat back and lay it flat.
- For Model S owners, using electrical tape to wrap around the metal hook where the seats click can help reduce the rattling. Another solution for addressing rattling noises in the seat brackets or latches is to use foam or rubber padding.
- This can be applied to the areas where the brackets or latches come into contact with the seat. This helps to absorb vibrations and reduce the rattling.
- In some cases, the rattling may be caused by loose seat bolts. Check the seat bolts and tighten them if necessary.
- If the rattling noise is caused by friction between the seat brackets or latches, applying a lubricant (such as silicone spray or graphite powder) can help reduce the noise by reducing the friction.
2. Rattling In The Footwell Area Beneath The Steering Wheel
Some drivers have complained about rattling noises in the footwell area beneath the steering wheel.
Solution
- Apply lubricant inside holes on the side of the steering wheel neck.
- Use foam strips to fix the rattles in the driver-side footwell area against the AC vent.
- Check for loose panels in the driver-side upper footwell area.
- Inspect the footwell area for any other potential sources of rattling.
3. Rattling In The Door Panels
Loose wires or clips get out of place or break and cause the door rattling.
Solution
- Using the trim removal tools, carefully pry the door panel off, beginning at the bottom and working your way up.
- Take care not to damage the panel or the clips.
- For a visual explanation of how to remove the door panel, watch this video tutorial.
- After you’ve addressed the source of the rattling, carefully reconnect the door panel by matching the clips and forcing them back into place.
- Double-check that all of the clips are properly connected.
4. Rattling In The Front Wheel Well And Fender Liner Joint
The front wheel well and fender liner joint on the passenger side of the Tesla Model 3 have been identified as potential sources of rattling noises.
Solution
- To fix the fender liner to the actual body fender, seal it using black gorilla tape.
- Consider Tesla’s usage of invisible fasteners. There are holes at the front that aren’t connected to anything. This can cause the fender lining to rattle.
- Applying foam seal tape to problematic locations can help decrease or eliminate rattling. It provides a cushioning effect and decreases component movement.
5. Rattling In The Passenger Door Speaker And Tweeter
Rattling noises in the Model 3 can also be caused by the passenger door speaker and tweeter. It is often caused by loose wires in the panels and/or clips that are out of place or broken.
Solution
- Line the two sides of the door with foam. This offers cushioning and lessen vibrations.
- Place a piece of foam tape between the outer panel and the door pocket. Pull the space between the outer panel and the door pocket open and tape it shut until the vibration stops.
- This strategy can assist in absorbing vibrations and preventing them from creating rattling noises.
- Examine the door panels for any loose cables or clips.
6. Rattling In The Driver-Side Footwell Area Against The AC Vent
Another probable cause of rattling noises in the Model 3 is the driver-side footwell area against the AC vent.
Solution
- Use Foam Seal Tape, 1/4″ W X 1/8″ Tto fix the driver side footwell area. Pry up the wood/white dash trim to access the area. Cut the foam strips to the appropriate size and shape.
Apply the foam strips to the areas where the rattling is occurring. Make sure of a secure and snug fit.
- Apply dry lube to the hinges of the phone holder area. It can fix squeaky noises.
7. Rattling In The Rear Seat Belts
Improper seat belt orientation, buckle impacting the plastic side of the car, seat belt rattling against the c-pillars and locking the ratchet and latching the belt to the lock can cause the issue.
Solution
- The rattling may occur just at a certain seat angle. Change the seat recline and see if it goes away.
- Apply stick-on Velcro (the soft loop side) to the hard plastic. Just where the buckle is impacting it. This material cushions contact between seat belt components and surrounding surfaces to minimize rattling noise.
Read Also: Why Does My Tesla Make a Popping Noise When Charging?
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Why do Tesla Model 3s have more rattling noise issues?
Differences in manufacturing processes or design choices cause this.
Can aftermarket accessories cause rattling noises in my Tesla?
Some aftermarket accessories, such as poorly installed dashcams or phone mounts, can potentially cause rattling noises in your Tesla.
Are there any Tesla-approved soundproofing solutions for rattling noises?
No. Tesla does not officially endorse or recommend specific soundproofing solutions for rattling noises.
