How do I go about fixing interior creaks? [video inside]

[psamtik]

Linked:

Anyone else have problems like this? Pushing places = creaks + pops.

It looks like I'll have to tear out the entire glovebox + glovebox surround + side covers and vent covers. And basically, look at every point of contact with the plastics....and get some hockey tape or foam tape and hope that I can cover up every point of friction.

This is ridiculous.

[OzJustin]

My car has been rattling like crazy lately too. I expected much more from a BMW. I will be looking at wrapping the trim undersides with foam. Let me know what works best for you.

[psamtik]

Bump. Anyone else?

Yeah, this is the worst quality you can expect from any car maker. Japanese AND Americans do way better.

[6MT_Addict]

Super easy fix.

This happens when plastic is moving against other plastic, and 'grinds'.

To resolve this you need to separate the pieces. I've done this via several ways;

1. 3M Velcro, loop side. Cut into small pieces.
2. 1/8" thick foam weather seal (the kind you use on sliding doors, any hardware store will have this)
3. Vinyl Wrap (not very effective, but works in some situations)

Procedure:

A. Remove the panel affected, at least enough to look for scratch marks or where it's obviously in contact.

B. Line one edge of the panel with either foam or 3M velcro where the panels are contacting. I prefer the velcro as the small pieces you can cut are really easy to work with, and it's very forgiving. You can remove a piece and re-attach several times. (cut about 1/4" wide strips)

C. Re-attach the panel. Test for noises. If noises remain, remove and re-position the velcro or add more.

As an FYI, I've disassembled many vehicle interiors, including non M and M BMW models (M division, not M sport. Ie M3 vs 335i). The M models are lined with 1/8" thick x ~1/4" wide foam strips in many locations, non M models only in some locations. If you have a creak, the above method with solve it if done properly.

When I get my 1er out of storage in May I'll be putting together a detailed DIY on how to do this for the centre consol.

[psamtik]

Exactly what I was going to do. I found the E82 TIS and am going to take this all apart... I hate messing with trim because it's so easy to break pieces and tabs accidentally.