Hardtop convertible rattles?

[UKHOOPZ]

I recently purchased a 2008 328i Convertible with the retractable hardtop. However, when we hit even the smallest bumps there are several rattles in the ceiling. Is this normal?

[mattjw916]

Well minor rattles would be understandable since a vert will never be as stiff or as quiet as a coupe but it depends on the ferocity of the rattle really. Since you're the only one who's heard it you'll have to use your judgment on that one. If it sounds like part of the roof is about to snap off I'd say take it in.

[eisenb11]

Welcome to the world of convertibles. Even the hard tops rattle. I have an 08 E93 as well and there's always some little rattle when I hit bumps. Unfortunately, it appears that this is the price we pay for open air driving.

If it's crazy loud (like something is going to break or is grinding together) I'd go get it looked it, otherwise the dealer is just going to lube the thing (which may get rid of some squeaks, but not the rattles, for a few days) and send you on your way.

My car was absolutely silent when I first bought it, but things do loosen up and shift around over time.

[holycrap]

I have an 09 convertible, I don't hear anything. Maybe it's because it's still at 2,500 miles.

[fun2drive]

24xxx miles and yes some rattles. Suggest you get some Gummi Pfledge and lube all the rubber seals too.
Many times some squeaks are caused by this.
My Mar 2007 build was vault solid when I got it and it is still pretty solid but yes some rattles and a few squeaks.
If this is a 2008 and still under BMW warranty take it to the dealer and ask them to see if this is normal function or not.

[acmaui]

11k on an 08 335 and there are no rattles.

[moisesj23]

2007 328i with 20K miles and haven't noticed any rattles, only if the car is going to dip in some funky angle.

[Cricomac]

2007 335i convertible, purchased as low-mileage CPO last May. Had an annoying rattle from right rear window that disappeared when top and/or windows were down. Dealer said there was a TSB on the issue and fixed it under warranty. No more rattle.

[eisenb11]

2007 335i convertible, purchased as low-mileage CPO last May. Had an annoying rattle from right rear window that disappeared when top and/or windows were down. Dealer said there was a TSB on the issue and fixed it under warranty. No more rattle.

Any idea on what the TSB number is and if it applies to 08s?

[JJBMW]

Mine rattles also with the top up. It's an '08 328i convertible with 43k miles. It just started, so I assume that it's a sign of aging - could be the miles, could be the year (I'm writing this in Jan, '12.)

The rattles come from the roof over bumps, potholes, etc...

[jrjinsa]

2011 here with 10,000 on mine. Zero rattles. I use Gummi Fledge every six months...the stuff is great!

[andrew b]

2007 with 37,000 miles and no rattles or squeeks.

Definitely do the gummi phledge treatment regularly. I use it probably once a month or so.

[fun2drive]

All of the minor rattles go away as well as the squeaks when I Gummi Pfledge on a regular basis like say every 6 months. 47K miles now at 4 years 10 months since built.